check the box

USAGE SUMMARY

"check the box" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it any time you want to ask or encourage someone to click, check off, or otherwise select an item in a list. For example, "Please check the box for the item you want to add to your cart."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Check the box score.

The New York Times

Or did she check the box voluntarily?

The New Yorker

Just check the box, and keep writing!

Harvard University

Check the box then click Submit.

Duke University

Check the box to turn fog on.

Duke University

"Number one, Manny didn't check the box," Koncz said.

BBC

"Check the box and move on".

Huffington Post

Check the box.

WikiHow

Double check the box.

WikiHow

Check the box, if so.

WikiHow

Check the box for directions.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "check the box" when you need someone to confirm or select an option from a list. Ensure the checkbox is clearly visible and associated with the correct item.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly labeling the checkbox and providing context for what the user is agreeing to or selecting when they "check the box".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "check the box" primarily functions as an imperative, giving a direct instruction to the user. This is supported by Ludwig AI, confirming its usability and correctness in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

53%

Academia

22%

News & Media

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "check the box" is a common and grammatically correct imperative used to instruct someone to mark a checkbox, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Examples show its use in various contexts, including wikis, academic materials, and news articles. While it's most frequently found in informal and neutral settings like WikiHow, it effectively conveys a clear call to action. When using "check the box", ensure that the instruction is unambiguous and that the checkbox is appropriately labeled to avoid confusion. Related phrases such as "tick the box" or "select the option" can be used as alternatives, depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tick the box

Uses a synonym for "check", maintaining the same meaning and instruction.

mark the checkbox

Specifies the type of box being checked, adding clarity.

select the option

Replaces "check the box" with a more general instruction to choose an option.

place a checkmark

Replaces the verb "check" with the act of placing a checkmark.

choose the appropriate box

Emphasizes the need to select the correct box from available options.

fill in the box

Focuses on the action of filling the box, rather than just checking it.

confirm your selection

Shifts the focus to the confirmation of the user's choice.

indicate your choice

Offers a broader instruction to show your preference.

accept the terms

Implies agreement by checking a box related to terms and conditions.

acknowledge the statement

Suggests recognition and agreement with a statement, often indicated by checking a box.

FAQs

What does "check the box" mean?

The phrase "check the box" is an instruction to mark a checkbox, typically to indicate agreement, selection, or confirmation of something.

What can I say instead of "check the box"?

You can use alternatives like "tick the box", "select the option", or "mark the checkbox" depending on the context.

How do I use "check the box" in a sentence?

You can use "check the box" in imperative sentences, for example: "Check the box if you agree to the terms and conditions."

What is the difference between "check the box" and "fill in the box"?

"Check the box" typically refers to marking a checkbox, while "fill in the box" usually refers to writing information in a designated area.