a police check

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a police check" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a verification process conducted by law enforcement to check an individual's background or criminal record. Example: "Before hiring new employees, the company requires a police check to ensure a safe working environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Volunteers coming to work in the UK from overseas must show evidence of a police check from their home country.

The Guardian

"Well, it's…" he starts, reaching into his back pocket for his wallet, before presenting his "medical marijuana patient verification" card like it's a police check.

The Guardian - Arts

Kabul police said protesters Sunday attacked a police vehicle and set fire to a police check post, causing authorities to send added security forces to block their march.

The Washington Post

Mr. Shin died when he leapt from a moving train as it approached a station to evade a police check point, students have said.

The New York Times

In the summer of 2013 riots broke out after a man violently resisted a police check on his wife, who was wearing a face-covering veil, which is banned in public in secular France.

The Economist

"We met him in May this year," said Ed. "We used him twice before, but met him in person for the first visit and then got a police check and followed up his references.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

A jagged crater, in the Indus highway that spans Pakistan north-south, showed where a police check-point had been almost erased.

The Economist

North of the city hours earlier, gunman assaulted a police check-point, leaving eight officers dead and 11 others injured, Reuters reported.

Vice

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Around 55 people were killed in Iraq in attacks on Saturday that targeted a Shiite Muslim gathering, a police check-point and the family of a Sunni paramilitary leader opposed to Islamic State, according to security and medical sources.

Huffington Post

Gunmen believed to belong to Islamic State, a Sunni group, earlier in the day staged two attacks north of Baghdad, one targeting a police check-point and the other the house of a Sunni militia chief who supports the government, police sources said.

Huffington Post

The men, all in their 20s and from London, were held on Monday afternoon after a police stop check on their vehicle outside the high security nuclear facility in west Cumbria.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a police check", ensure the context clearly indicates the purpose, scope, and legal requirements associated with the check.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a police check" provides a complete picture of an individual's history. It primarily focuses on criminal records and may not reveal other relevant information, such as professional misconduct or civil litigation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a police check" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a police check" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to verifying an individual's criminal history. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts, particularly in news, wiki, and scientific publications. While often used interchangeably with "background check", it's important to remember that a police check primarily focuses on criminal records. When writing, ensure that the context clearly specifies the purpose and scope of the check. The phrase is considered neutral in register, making it suitable for a wide range of audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

criminal record check

Focuses specifically on the individual's history of criminal offenses.

background investigation

A more encompassing term that might include employment history, credit checks, and other forms of verification beyond criminal records.

security clearance

Refers to a formal authorization granting access to classified information or restricted areas, typically involving extensive vetting.

vetting process

Describes the overall evaluation and screening procedure, often involving multiple checks and assessments.

enhanced screening

Implies a more rigorous and thorough examination compared to standard checks.

due diligence

Emphasizes the careful and thorough investigation undertaken to mitigate risks or ensure compliance.

identity verification

Focuses on confirming the individual's identity and preventing impersonation or fraud.

reference check

Involves contacting individuals who can attest to the applicant's character, skills, and experience.

suitability assessment

Determines whether an individual possesses the qualities and qualifications necessary for a particular role or position.

records search

Specifically refers to the act of searching databases and archives for relevant information.

FAQs

What is the purpose of "a police check"?

The primary purpose of "a police check" is to verify an individual's criminal history. It's often required for employment, volunteering, or immigration purposes to ensure safety and security.

What information does "a police check" typically reveal?

Generally, "a police check" discloses any criminal convictions, pending charges, and relevant police records. However, the specific information released may vary depending on local laws and regulations.

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "a police check"?

You can use alternatives like "criminal record check", "background check", or "security clearance" depending on the specific context and scope of the verification.

Is "a police check" the same as "a background check"?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, "background check" is often broader than "a police check". A background check might include employment history, education verification, and credit checks in addition to criminal records.