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pore over

B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To look at or read something very carefully for a long time, paying close attention to every detail.

Literal meaning: The verb 'pore' means to look intently; 'over' indicates covering the full surface of something — together suggesting an intense, thorough examination.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic neutral

To read or examine a document, text, or object with great care and concentration.

"She pored over the contract for hours before finally signing it."

"He sat poring over a map of the city, trying to find the quickest route."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To think deeply and at length about a problem or question.

"The scientists pored over the data for weeks without finding an answer."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Often confused in spelling with 'pour over', which is incorrect in this idiom. 'Pore' here is a verb meaning to look intently. Common in written and spoken English. Usually applied to texts, documents, maps, or data. Carries a connotation of scholarly or serious engagement.

Commonly used with

documents maps books data reports photographs

Forms

Base
pore over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pores over
he/she/it
Past simple
pored over
yesterday
Past participle
pored over
have + pp
-ing form
poring over
continuous

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