Definition

Verb (present participle / gerund): - Reading something carefully and thoroughly: The act of examining or studying written material with close attention and with the intention of understanding or remembering its content.

Usage

The word "perusing" is the present participle or gerund form of the verb "peruse." It describes the ongoing action of reading meticulously. It often implies a more engaged, detailed, and thoughtful reading than simply scanning or skimming. - It is commonly used in formal or academic contexts but is also appropriate in general descriptive writing. - It can function as a verb (e.g., "She is perusing the document") or as a noun (a gerund, e.g., "A careful perusing of the text is required").

Examples

• As a verb (in a progressive tense):
  • The lawyer spent the afternoon perusing the contract for any hidden clauses.
  • I found him perusing the ancient manuscript in the library's special collection.
• As a noun (gerund):
  • His perusing of the financial reports revealed several discrepancies.
  • A quick glance is not enough; this document deserves a thorough perusing.

Advanced Usage

• "Perusing" can sometimes be used in a slightly ironic or humorous way to describe looking through casual materials (like a magazine or menu) with pretended or mild seriousness.
  • She was perusing the dessert menu with great concentration.

Variants and Related Words

• Peruse (verb): To read carefully or thoroughly.
  • Please peruse this article before our meeting.
• Perusal (noun): The action of reading or examining something carefully.
  • I recommend a close perusal of the instructions.
• Peruser (noun): A person who peruses.
  • The newsletter is aimed at the careful peruser of industry news.

Synonyms

• Scrutinizing: Examining or inspecting closely and thoroughly.
• Studying: Devoting time and attention to acquiring knowledge from written material.
• Examining: Inspecting something in detail.
• Poring over: Reading or studying with steady attention.

Antonyms

• Skimming: Reading quickly to get the main ideas.
• Scanning: Looking over quickly to locate specific information.
• Glancing: Taking a brief or hurried look.
• Ignoring: Refusing to take notice of or read.

Related Phrases / Idioms

• To give something a (good) perusal: To read or examine something carefully.
  • Before you sign, give the agreement a good perusal.
• Worthy of perusal: Deserving to be read carefully.
  • The author's latest paper is certainly worthy of perusal.

Noun

1. reading carefully with intent to remember