check the temperature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "check the temperature" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to measuring the heat level of an object, environment, or a person's body. Example: "Before starting the cooking process, make sure to check the temperature of the oven."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Rub a little between your fingers to check the temperature and that it isn't grainy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The first thing you should do is check the temperature setting," Ms. Reek said.

The New York Times

They feed them, check the temperature of the fish tanks and assess the delicate chemical balance of the water.

The New York Times

"Put it in the refrigerator to check the temperature to make sure it's cold enough".

The New York Times

Check the temperature.

Huffington Post

Many didn't check the temperature of patients who claimed to have a fever.

Vice

Elections were in Arizona on Tuesday, and I wanted to check the temperature of the state.

Vice

It is only pulled out to clean it or check the temperature connections.

Huffington Post

3. Check the temperature of the water with an instant-read thermometer.

Los Angeles Times

I use a deep-frying digital thermometer to check the temperature between batches.

Los Angeles Times

Check the temperature and weather.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, be specific about the method of checking the temperature. For example, specify which type of thermometer to use or the expected range.

Common error

Avoid simply saying "check the temperature" without context. Specify what you're checking the temperature of (e.g., "Check the temperature of the oven", not just "Check the temperature").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "check the temperature" functions primarily as an instruction or directive. It calls for an action to be performed: to verify or determine the heat level of something. As seen in Ludwig, this usage is supported by numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

56%

News & Media

26%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "check the temperature" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to instruct someone to determine the heat level of something. According to Ludwig, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, particularly in Wiki and News & Media. While it's generally neutral in register, specifying what temperature to check and how enhances clarity. Alternatives like "measure the temperature" or "verify the temperature" can add nuance depending on the specific context. By avoiding overgeneralizations and ensuring specific instructions, you can effectively use this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

measure the temperature

Replaces "check" with a more precise verb, focusing on the act of measurement.

verify the temperature

Substitutes "check" with "verify", emphasizing the confirmation of the temperature.

ascertain the temperature

Uses "ascertain" instead of "check", suggesting a more formal determination of temperature.

monitor the temperature

Replaces "check" with "monitor", implying continuous observation of the temperature.

assess the temperature

Uses "assess" in place of "check", indicating an evaluation of the temperature.

take a temperature reading

Rephrases as taking a reading, focusing on the action of obtaining a temperature measurement.

determine the temperature

Substitute "check" with "determine", focusing on finding or establishing the temperature.

gauge the temperature

Replaces "check" with "gauge", suggesting an estimation or judgment of the temperature.

find out the temperature

Uses "find out" in place of "check", emphasizing the discovery of the temperature.

observe the temperature

Replaces "check" with "observe", focusing on watching the temperature.

FAQs

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

You can use "check the temperature" in sentences like, "Before adding the yeast, "check the temperature of the water" to ensure it's not too hot," or "Check the temperature regularly to prevent freezer crystals".

What are some alternatives to "check the temperature"?

Alternatives include "measure the temperature", "verify the temperature", or "monitor the temperature", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "check the temperature"?

It is appropriate to use "check the temperature" when you need to determine or confirm the heat level of something, whether it's food, an environment, or a person. For example: "Check the temperature before serving to little children."

What's the difference between "check the temperature" and "take the temperature"?

"Check the temperature" generally implies a quick assessment, while "take the temperature" often refers to a more formal or precise measurement, typically using a device like a thermometer.