Scrutiny/ˈskruːtəni/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Media Usage The term is often used in news to describe intense media attention. The politician's speech is under scrutiny by news outlets. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Implication 'Under scrutiny' can imply problems or issues being looked at. The company's finances were under scrutiny after the audit. Pro Tip 3/3Seeking Details Scrutiny implies looking at something very closely. Her research underwent close scrutiny before publication.