Peruse Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈpɜːruːz/

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To peruse is to examine or read something carefully and thoroughly, often for a long time, with great attention to detail and interest.

Examples

1. “She spent hours perusing the latest novel, completely absorbed in the story.”

2. “He perused the menu carefully, deciding what to order for dinner.”

Synonyms

1. Browse

2. Scan

3. Examine

Antonyms

1. Glance

2. Flick through

Etymology

The word “peruse” comes from the Latin “perusare,” which means “to cull” or “to select.” It entered the English language in the 15th century, initially meaning “to pick out” or “to choose.” Over time, its meaning expanded to include the idea of carefully examining or reading something.

Additional Information

Perusing is an important part of the learning process, allowing individuals to gain a deeper understanding of complex concepts and ideas. It is often used in academic and professional settings to thoroughly review and analyze information. In everyday life, perusing can be a enjoyable activity, such as reading a book or browsing a favorite website. When perusing, it is essential to pay attention to detail, take notes, and ask questions to clarify any doubts.

Perusing can be a therapeutic activity, providing a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life. It can also be a social activity, as people often engage in conversations about the things they have perused. Whether it’s reading a book, watching a movie, or exploring a new place, perusing can be a fun and rewarding experience.

In modern times, perusing has taken on new forms, such as browsing online content, scrolling through social media, or streaming videos. While these activities can be entertaining, it’s essential to strike a balance between perusing and other aspects of life, ensuring that time is spent on meaningful activities and not excessive screen time.

Perusing can also be a valuable skill in personal and professional development, as it allows individuals to stay up-to-date with the latest information and trends in their field. By perusing relevant resources, such as books, articles, and online courses, individuals can expand their knowledge and improve their skills, leading to greater success and achievement.

Usage Notes

When using the word “peruse,” it’s essential to use it in the correct context. Perusing is typically used to describe a more thorough and deliberate examination of something, whereas browsing or scanning might imply a more superficial or cursory glance.

Perusing can be used in a variety of contexts, including academic, professional, and personal settings. For example, a student might peruse a textbook to gain a deeper understanding of a complex concept, while a professional might peruse industry reports to stay informed about the latest trends.

Cultural References

The word “peruse” has been featured in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. In the novel “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, the character Elizabeth Bennet is described as perusing a book, showcasing the word’s use in a literary context.

In the movie “The Shawshank Redemption,” the character Andy Dufresne is depicted perusing a book in prison, highlighting the word’s use in a dramatic context.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “peruse” include:

To peruse at leisure
To peruse with great interest
To peruse the options

Collocations

Some common collocations with the word “peruse” include:

To peruse a book
To peruse a document
To peruse a website

Frequency of Use

The word “peruse” is not as commonly used as some other verbs, but it is still an essential part of the English language. It is often used in formal or academic writing, and its frequency of use has remained relatively stable over the past few decades.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the word “peruse” include:

Perusee
Perusse
Perusor