check

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "check" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as verifying information, confirming details, or ensuring something is in order. Example: "Please check the report for any errors before submitting it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Check it out.

The New York Times

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The Guardian

There are many other different and valid approaches, which you can check out here.

The Guardian

To kick off a release – in this example v1.0 – just run the following two commands: Check Travis CI to monitor your build.

The Guardian

Some may ask for rent in advance while others will require a lump sum of money to be returned providing the house is well kept Read it back-to-front and get your university's student advice service or student union to check it over.

The Guardian

Of all the senators who attempted Wednesday to rally support for the doomed Manchin-Toomey background check amendment, Connecticut's Democratic freshman representative, Chris Murphy, probably faced the greatest temptation to borrow the moral authority of the Newtown families.

The Guardian - Opinion

Erin Klein, who tracks US radio stations for the Broadcasting Board of Governors, was relieved to be returning to the office and keen to check on the status of the database she manages.

The Guardian

Prisoners are checked every two hours during the night, but it is a simple, visual check.

The Guardian

Regularly check for updates of router software, as these will fix vulnerabilities.

The Guardian - Tech

VPNs can be easily downloaded but check reviews for the best options.

The Guardian - Tech

Climbing out to one of the lookout points for a surf check we look through a small gap in the beachside trees to a view revealing the dark bumps of the swell.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "check" in technical writing, specify the criteria or standards against which something is being assessed to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "check" as a vague placeholder for more specific actions. Instead of saying "Check the box", specify "Mark the box with an 'X'" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "check" is as both a verb, meaning to examine or verify, and as a noun, referring to the act of examining or a means of control. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, confirming its dual role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "check" functions both as a verb and a noun, carrying meanings of examination, verification, or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media. To improve your writing, use "check" with specific details and context to avoid ambiguity, and consider alternatives such as "verify" or "inspect" for nuanced expression. With examples extracted from reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times, this guide offers practical insights for effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

verify

Emphasizes the act of confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

inspect

Focuses on a detailed examination to assess condition or quality.

examine

Highlights a careful investigation or scrutiny.

confirm

Stresses the act of establishing certainty about something.

validate

Implies the act of proving or supporting the validity of something.

investigate

Suggests a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an incident, allegation, etc. so as to establish the truth.

scrutinize

Highlights a thorough and critical examination.

assess

Focuses on evaluating the nature, ability, or quality of something.

review

Implies a formal assessment of something with the intention of instituting change if necessary.

audit

Suggests a systematic and independent examination of records.

FAQs

How can I use "check" in a sentence?

You can use "check" as a verb, meaning to examine or verify something, as in "Please check your email." Or as a noun, referring to an examination or control, as in "Give it a quick check."

What is a synonym for "check"?

Alternatives to "check" include "verify", "inspect", "examine", or "confirm" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "check on" or "check in on"?

"Check on" and "check in on" are both correct, but have slightly different meanings. "Check on" implies a brief observation or examination, while "check in on" suggests a more involved inquiry into someone's well-being.

What's the difference between "check out" and "check up on"?

"Check out" generally means to investigate or look at something, or to formally leave a place (like a hotel). "Check up on" implies monitoring or verifying someone's activities or condition, especially when there's a concern for their well-being.