I checked out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I checked out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that you have examined or looked into something, or to express that you have left a place, such as a hotel or library. Example: "After spending a few hours at the library, I checked out several books to take home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

From London: "i checked out that dude.

Vice

"I checked out long ago".

The New Yorker

I checked out his Web site.

The New York Times - Arts

Afterwards, I checked out the site.

The Guardian - Arts

My children and I checked out books.

The New York Times

I checked out the case studies.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

I checked out-of-date sources apparently, they're still in development.

TechCrunch

I check out the minibar.

The New York Times

I check out the football and I'm happy".

The Guardian

Instead I check out yesterday's Iain Lee or Lauren Laverne.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It's kind of like I check out," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I checked out" to mean 'left a place', be sure the context clearly indicates you are referring to a physical location like a hotel or library. Otherwise, use more specific terms like 'I left' or 'I departed'.

Common error

Avoid using "I checked out" in contexts where it might be misunderstood as simply verifying something, especially in formal writing. Instead, use clearer alternatives like "I verified" or "I confirmed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I checked out" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It combines the verb 'check' with the particle 'out' to create meanings such as examining something or leaving a location. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I checked out" is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings, including examining something, leaving a place, or mentally disengaging. It is grammatically correct and very commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in formality, it's important to consider the specific context to avoid ambiguity and choose the most appropriate alternative if needed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and prevalence in diverse scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I investigated

Focuses on the act of inquiring and exploring details, instead of concluding.

I examined

Implies a close and careful observation or inspection, not a simple review.

I scrutinized

Emphasizes detailed examination, which is more intensive than a casual look.

I departed

Specifically means to leave or go away, rather than a more general leaving.

I left

Directly expresses leaving a place or situation, without the implication of a formal procedure.

I exited

Suggests a more formal or official departure, like from a system or program.

I withdrew

Signifies a removal or retreat, not just a physical departure.

I stopped paying attention

Specifically refers to ceasing to focus or listen, a mental disengagement.

I disengaged

Suggests a deliberate act of disconnecting or detaching oneself.

I lost focus

Highlights the inability to concentrate, an involuntary shift in attention.

FAQs

How can I use "I checked out" in a sentence?

You can use "I checked out" to mean that you examined something, as in "I checked out the new software". It can also mean you left a place, such as "I checked out of the hotel this morning".

What's the difference between "I checked out" and "I looked into"?

"I checked out" implies a brief or casual examination. "I looked into", like "I investigated", suggests a more detailed inquiry.

What can I say instead of "I checked out" when leaving a hotel?

Instead of "I checked out", you can say "I departed", "I left", or "I settled my bill and left" for more clarity.

Is it correct to say "I checked out" when referring to losing focus?

Yes, in informal contexts. However, more precise alternatives like "I lost focus" or "I stopped paying attention" may be better in formal writing.