check up on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "check up on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to talk about someone/something that is being investigated or observed. Example: I will check up on the progress of the project to make sure it is running smoothly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We check up on them after two weeks.

The New York Times

We check up on a stiff shoulder and things like that.

BMC Health Services Research

Check up on how your article is doing.

WikiHow

"I just thought I'd check up on you".

The New Yorker

…their parents check up on their online activities.

The New York Times

"She thought I should check up on you.

The New Yorker

We all phone to check up on each other.

The Guardian

They called me at home to check up on me.

The New York Times - Sports

They called to check up on the dog.

The New York Times

Do private equity firms always check up on placement agents?

The New York Times

Nathalie left the room to check up on Polly's ear.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, use "check up on" to convey a sense of responsibility or care. For example, "Remember to "check up on" your neighbors during the heatwave" emphasizes a caring action.

Common error

In formal contexts, avoid overuse of "check up on". Opt for more precise alternatives like "monitor", "investigate", or "assess" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "check up on" primarily functions as a verb indicating an action to investigate, monitor, or assess someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage, supported by numerous examples across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "check up on" is a versatile phrasal verb widely used to express the action of monitoring, investigating, or assessing. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and appears frequently across various sources, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in tone, consider more formal alternatives like "monitor" or "assess" in professional settings. Remember that effective use of "check up on" conveys a sense of care or responsibility, emphasizing the importance of due diligence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep an eye on

Suggests vigilance and protective oversight.

look into

Emphasizes examining or inquiring into something.

follow up with

Emphasizes subsequent contact to ensure progress or satisfaction.

monitor

Single-word alternative; focuses on ongoing observation.

keep tabs on

Implies discreet observation or tracking.

investigate

Focuses on a systematic or formal inquiry.

touch base with

Emphasizes brief communication for updates or confirmation.

ensure the well-being of

Highlights a concern for someone's health and happiness.

scrutinize

Suggests detailed and critical examination.

assess the condition of

Focuses on evaluating the state or health of something.

FAQs

How can I use "check up on" in a sentence?

You can use "check up on" to mean to investigate or monitor someone or something. For example, "I need to "check up on" the status of my order" or "She promised to "check up on" her elderly neighbor".

What's a more formal way to say "check up on"?

More formal alternatives to "check up on" include "monitor", "investigate", or "assess", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "check in on" instead of "check up on"?

While "check in on" is also a valid phrasal verb, it typically implies a more casual and less thorough inquiry than "check up on". Use "check in on" for brief updates and "check up on" for more detailed monitoring.

What is the difference between "check up on" and "follow up with"?

"Check up on" generally refers to verifying the status or condition of something, while "follow up with" implies taking further action or maintaining contact to ensure progress or satisfaction.