Which text uses the word peruse in its traditional sense?
Duncan perused a catalog from his wife's favorite clothing store, searching for the perfect birthday gift. Duncan perused a clothing catalog as he waited for his appointment, flipping through the pages distractedly.
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner.
When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences.
Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam.
The traditional usage above is considered more standard.
David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages.
The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The first text uses peruse in its traditional sense: to examine in detail.
Duncan perused a catalog from his wife's favorite clothing store, searching for the perfect birthday gift.
The second text uses peruse in its nontraditional sense: to look through in a casual manner.
Duncan perused a clothing catalog as he waited for his appointment, flipping through the pages distractedly.
Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word peruse because it is considered more standard.