by checking the box

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by checking the box" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the action of selecting an option or agreeing to terms in a form or document. Example: "You can confirm your participation in the survey by checking the box at the bottom of the page."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Select the project you wish to share by checking the box next to it.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The jury, by checking the box for punitive damages on the verdict form, indicated it planned further punishment for Novartis.

The New York Times

You can do so by checking the box next to the email, which in Gmail will cause several icons to appear on top of the mailbox window.

The Guardian - Money

By checking the box above, but not this box, I indicate my acceptance of these terms and conditions, unless I have also checked the box below, in which case I indicate my denial, unless I have checked a total of three or more boxes, in which case I have passed beyond denial, cycled through anger, bargaining, and depression, and am now back at acceptance.

The New Yorker

If you wish to opt out of any of the above terms and conditions, you must now walk up to the screen and check one or more of the following boxes with an indelible black Magic Marker: By checking the box below, but not this box, I indicate my denial of these terms and conditions.

The New Yorker

You can mark entries for deletion upon submit by checking the box in the delete column.

Duke University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"RIM got into this market by checking the boxes on everything that enterprises I.T. departments wanted," Mr. Brown said.

The New York Times

Choose which files to import into your current library by checking the boxes next to those files, and click Import.

Cornell University

In CLIO, carry out your search and tag the records you wish to import into EndNote by checking the boxes in the left-hand column.

Columbia University

If you wish to import all the records on the page, choose "All on Page". To export selected records from multiple pages of the list of search results, after selecting them on the first page by checking the boxes, click the "Retain Selected" button at the bottom (above Print/Save/Email).

Columbia University

You start by checking the boxes of the appropriate income you have received this year.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by checking the box" to guide users in forms, surveys, or any interactive context where selection via a checkbox is required. For example, in documentation or tutorials.

Common error

Avoid using "by checking the box" without specifying which box. If there are multiple checkboxes, clearly label each to avoid confusion. For example, instead of saying "Agree to the terms by checking the box", say "Agree to the terms by checking the 'I agree' box".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by checking the box" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a means or method. It indicates how an action is performed, specifically through the act of selecting a checkbox, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

39%

Academia

21%

News & Media

14%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by checking the box" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to instruct or guide actions, particularly within digital and written interfaces. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in diverse contexts, as supported by multiple real-world examples. While suitable for both formal and informal communication, users should ensure clarity by specifying which box is being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "by ticking the box" or "by selecting the checkbox" can be used depending on the desired tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by ticking the box

Replaces "checking" with "ticking", which is a synonym in this context.

by selecting the checkbox

Substitutes "box" with "checkbox", specifying the type of box.

by marking the box

Uses "marking" instead of "checking", implying a more physical action.

by clicking the box

Emphasizes the digital selection of the box.

by filling in the box

Suggests completing the box with a mark or information.

by enabling the option

Focuses on the result of checking the box, which is to enable something.

by agreeing to the terms

Highlights the act of agreeing, which is often the purpose of checking a box.

by accepting the conditions

Similar to agreeing, but emphasizes the acceptance of specific conditions.

by opting in

Implies choosing to participate or be included by checking the box.

by making a selection

Generalizes the action to simply choosing an option.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by checking the box" to sound more formal?

In a formal context, you can use phrases like "by selecting the checkbox", "by ticking the appropriate box", or "by marking the designated box". These alternatives provide a more professional tone.

What is the difference between "by checking the box" and "by clicking the box"?

"By checking the box" typically refers to selecting a checkbox option in a form or settings, while "by clicking the box" implies interacting with a box element on a screen, which might trigger an action. The best choice depends on context and what kind of box you are talking about.

When is it appropriate to use "by checking the box" in writing?

Use "by checking the box" when instructing someone to select a checkbox to confirm an action, agree to terms, or choose an option in a digital or paper form. It's a clear and direct way to guide users.

What are some common mistakes when using the phrase "by checking the box"?

A common mistake is not specifying which box to check if multiple options are available. To avoid ambiguity, clearly label the box or provide specific instructions. For instance, say "by checking the 'I agree' box" instead of simply "by checking the box".