checking the list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "checking the list" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of reviewing or verifying items on a list. Example: "Before finalizing the project, I will be checking the list to ensure everything is in order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

A young man was checking the list against the drivers.

The New York Times - Sports

Then Urzúa counted the men again, checking the list against his mental notes on how many men should be there.

The New Yorker

Urzúa counted the men again, checking the list against his mental notes on how many men should be there.

Independent

And long before the government mailed out census forms, the mayor's staff was out checking the list of addresses.

The New York Times

Fancy dress items are also essential on most campuses, especially during freshers' week, so it's worth checking the list of events for the themes.

The Guardian

It appears, however, that in the case of Mr. Perez, the Baldwin Park police were not checking the list at all in 2008, when the shootings occurred, in part because of confusion over how to access the database.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Two candidates did not sign the voters list on Friday, saying it needed to be verified for any irregularities, but Thowfeek had said their demands for double-checking the list were impossible to meet in time for the election.

The Guardian

(Just check the list of Oscar winners over the years).

The New York Times

They check the list, forgotten until now, a lot.

The New York Times

And always check the list of approved pharmacies, Mr. Steinberg advises.

The New York Times

Check the list against the list of events found at //www.nytimes.com/pages/sports/olympics2006/sports/index.html.html

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or procedures, use "checking the list" to ensure clarity in verifying steps or items.

Common error

Avoid using "checking the list" when the act of checking isn't directly related to a tangible list. For example, don't say "checking the list of possibilities" if you're brainstorming without a written list; instead, use "considering the possibilities".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "checking the list" functions as a gerund phrase or a present participle phrase. It can act as a noun or part of a continuous verb form. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various contexts where verification is key.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "checking the list" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes the action of verifying items on a list. Ludwig highlights its versatility across various contexts, from news reporting to scientific research and everyday instructions. While suitable for both neutral and informal communication, it's essential to use it when referring to a tangible list, as Ludwig AI confirms. For situations requiring alternatives, consider "reviewing the list" or "verifying the list". Overall, this phrase is a reliable and effective way to convey the act of verification in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reviewing the list

Focuses on a more detailed examination or assessment.

verifying the list

Emphasizes confirming the accuracy or truth of the items.

inspecting the list

Implies a closer, more careful examination.

examining the list

Similar to inspecting, suggesting a detailed look.

going over the list

Suggests a casual review, often to refresh memory.

looking through the list

Emphasizes the act of scanning for specific items.

cross-referencing the list

Indicates comparing the list with another source.

ticking off items on the list

Highlights the action of marking completed items.

working through the list

Suggests systematically addressing each item.

auditing the list

Implies a formal review for compliance or accuracy.

FAQs

How can I use "checking the list" in a sentence?

You can use "checking the list" to describe verifying items or information, such as: "Before finalizing the project, I'm "checking the list" to ensure everything is in order."

What can I say instead of "checking the list"?

Alternatives to "checking the list" include "reviewing the list", "verifying the list", or "inspecting the list", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "check the list" or "checking the list"?

The choice depends on the context. "Check the list" is an imperative, used to give a direct command. "Checking the list" is a gerund phrase, used as a noun or part of a continuous verb tense, as in "I am "checking the list" now".

What's the difference between "checking the list" and "double-checking the list"?

"Checking the list" means reviewing it once. "Double-"checking the list"" implies reviewing it a second time, often to ensure accuracy or catch errors.