- Today's Word
Perusal
puh-ROO-zuhl
Definition
- (noun) The act of carefully examining, reading, or reviewing something.
Example
After a thorough perusal of the contract, she noticed a hidden clause that could have cost her thousands.
Fun Fact
Contrary to popular belief, “perusal” does not mean just skimming—it actually refers to careful and detailed reading. The confusion likely arises from its occasional use to describe any kind of reading, but in legal and academic settings, a perusal implies deep analysis. So the next time someone says they gave something “a quick perusal,” they may be using it incorrectly!
(adjective) Translucently clear; easily understood; expressed with perfect clarity
His pellucid explanation of the complex tax code left the entire room nodding in understanding.
Pellucid derives from the Latin pellucidus, meaning “transparent” or “allowing light through,” from per (“through”) + lucere (“to shine”). It entered English in the 17th century, used first to describe physically clear substances like water or glass, and later extended metaphorically to describe clear, luminous writing and thought.