To study or examine something very carefully and attentively for a long time.
To look at or read something very carefully for a long time, paying close attention to every detail.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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.
To think deeply and at length about a problem or question.
"The scientists pored over the data for weeks without finding an answer."
The verb 'pore' means to look intently; 'over' indicates covering the full surface of something — together suggesting an intense, thorough examination.
To look at or read something very carefully for a long time, paying close attention to every detail.
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.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "pore over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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