Perusal vs. Peruse — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 27, 2024
Perusal refers to the act of reading or examining something carefully, whereas peruse means to read or examine thoroughly or with attention to detail.
Difference Between Perusal and Peruse
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Perusal is a noun that describes the action of reading or examining something with the intent of gaining understanding or insight. On the other hand, peruse is a verb that involves the actual process of reading or examining something meticulously.
Perusal is often used in formal contexts, suggesting a systematic or careful approach to reading documents or materials. Whereas, peruse can be used more broadly, sometimes implying a leisurely, yet thorough, examination.
Perusal implies the duration or the act of examining, focusing on the aspect of engaging with the content. Conversely, peruse emphasizes the method of engagement, suggesting an attentive and detailed approach.
The outcome of perusal is typically a deeper understanding or comprehensive overview of the content. In contrast, to peruse might lead to discovering specific details or insights due to the thorough nature of the reading.
In professional or academic settings, perusal might be requested to ensure all aspects of a document are understood before proceeding. On the other hand, someone might peruse a contract to ensure all terms are clear and acceptable before signing.
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Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Noun
Verb
Usage
Describes the action or process
Describes the act of performing
Context
Formal, often in written communications
Can be formal or informal
Focus
On the activity of examining
On the method of examining
Implication
Duration and engagement with content
Attention to detail and thoroughness
Compare with Definitions
Perusal
The act of reading or examining something.
The document is ready for your perusal.
Peruse
To scrutinize documents or written materials.
The lawyer perused the documents for any inconsistencies.
Perusal
Careful examination or review of details.
The contract requires careful perusal before approval.
Peruse
To review or study with attention to detail.
She perused the lease agreement to avoid any misunderstandings.
Perusal
The process of scrutinizing or studying material.
She handed over the manuscript for his perusal.
Peruse
To examine or read something in a leisurely way.
On Sunday mornings, he likes to peruse the newspaper.
Perusal
Engagement with reading material, typically thorough.
He set aside some time for the perusal of the report.
Peruse
To read or examine something thoroughly.
He perused the menu carefully before ordering.
Perusal
Reviewing content with the intent to understand.
Your application will undergo a final perusal by the committee.
Peruse
To look over or through an article with thoroughness.
She perused the book, marking important points.
Perusal
To read or examine, typically with great care.
Peruse
To read or examine, typically with great care.
Perusal
Usage Problem To glance over; skim.
Peruse
Usage Problem To glance over; skim.
Perusal
The act of perusing; studying something carefully.
Peruse
(transitive) To examine or consider with care.
Perusal
The act of carefully viewing or examining.
Peruse
(transitive) To read completely.
Perusal
The act of reading, especially of reading through or with care.
Peruse
To look over casually; to skim.
Perusal
Reading carefully with intent to remember
Peruse
To go from place to place; to wander.
Peruse
An examination or perusal; an instance of perusing.
Peruse
To observe; to examine with care.
Myself I then perused, and limb by limbSurveyed.
Peruse
To read through; to read carefully.
Peruse
Examine or consider with attention and in detail;
Please peruse this report at your leisure
Common Curiosities
How should I use peruse in a sentence to convey thoroughness?
Indicate the attention to detail, e.g., "She perused the report to ensure all facts were correct."
Can peruse be used for quick reading?
Although peruse can imply thorough reading, it is sometimes used informally to mean a quick glance, though this usage is less accurate.
What is a synonym for perusal?
Review, examination, or scrutiny.
What is the difference between perusal and peruse?
Perusal is the noun form referring to the act of examining, while peruse is the verb form meaning to examine thoroughly.
What does it mean to give something 'for your perusal'?
It means to offer something for thorough examination or review.
Is it appropriate to use peruse in casual conversation?
Yes, peruse can be used in casual conversation, especially when implying a detailed or careful examination.
Can I use peruse when referring to looking at items in a store?
Yes, you can say you perused items in a store, implying you looked at them carefully or in detail.
Is perusal always formal?
Perusal is commonly used in formal contexts, but it can be used informally depending on the situation.
What is the opposite of perusal?
A quick glance or cursory look.
Does peruse have different connotations in different contexts?
Yes, in formal contexts, it suggests thoroughness, while informally it can sometimes mean a quick skim, though this is less standard.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
