desk check

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desk check" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of reviewing or verifying something, often in programming or engineering, to ensure accuracy before further testing or implementation. Example: "Before we proceed with the final testing phase, let's conduct a desk check of the code to identify any potential issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

While you're looking at your desk, check on the positioning of your chair, computer and phone.

Forbes

If you do your homework at your desk, check the drawers and under your desk.

WikiHow

Don't keep your calculator in your math deck forever, a teacher will find it in a "desk check", so don't if calculators aren't allowed in class.

WikiHow

You can make her a card on nice paper, make her a necklace pendant, or make hr a sculpture for her desk (check your local art store for polymer clay).

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

High-end hotels are also using new technologies to eliminate the front desk check-in line — with personal greeters who shepherd guests through the check-in process in a more comfortable setting, using an iPad or laptop.

The New York Times

Later that afternoon, I was at my desk checking e-mail when a shock appeared in my inbox.

The New York Times

Before I turned in my laptop this last night, I sat at my own desk, checking pages for a late edition.

The Guardian

Clustered around a whiteboard in the office, they label Post-its with eligible talks, while Anderson runs back and forth from his desk, checking audience-reaction stats and saying things like "Reggie Watts — these people loved him!" Then they move the Post-its around, in seven-day clusters, building weekly tables of contents.

The New Yorker

At Facebook and Google, the offices were buzzing with activity, the reception desk checked him in using shiny new tablet computers and the executives working on the deal were so prepared they "basically knew what size underwear I wear," said the entrepreneur, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was still in talks to sell his company.

The New York Times - Tech

Each camp mate has individual canvas pods to sleep in and there's a front desk check-in.

TechCrunch

She completed the reservation and was later issued a digital key to her room, allowing her to bypass the front desk check-in process.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "desk check" in technical contexts, ensure that the audience understands it refers to a manual verification process. If there's a chance of ambiguity, clarify that it involves human review, especially if automated checks are also in place.

Common error

Avoid using "desk check" to describe a comprehensive audit or formal review process. The term is better suited for describing a quick, informal verification step performed by an individual.

Linguistic Context

Desk check functions as a compound noun, referring to a method of manually reviewing work, often in technical fields. Ludwig AI suggests it describes a process of verification conducted by a person to validate a procedure or code, for example.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "desk check" is a compound noun denoting a manual review process, commonly used in technical fields. It is grammatically correct and serves as a preliminary step for quality control. While Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, it is essential to remember it is better suited for a quick informal verification, not a comprehensive audit. Alternatives include phrases like "manual review" or "preliminary verification". Usage is relatively uncommon, with a professional tone in News & Media, Wiki and Science. Ensure audience understanding of the term referring to a manual verification process, especially if automated checks are also in place.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

workstation audit

Focuses on a formal inspection of the entire workstation setup, rather than a specific item.

workspace verification

Emphasizes confirming the correctness or completeness of the workspace setup.

algorithm validation

Specifically relates to confirming the accuracy of an algorithm.

procedural review

Implies a formal examination of a procedure, not just a quick check.

systematic examination

Highlights the methodical nature of the inspection.

detailed inspection

Underscores the thoroughness of the checking process.

preliminary assessment

Implies an initial evaluation before further action.

quality assurance review

Focuses on verifying quality standards are met.

manual simulation

Describes the manual execution of a process for verification.

step-by-step verification

Highlights the sequential aspect of the checking process.

FAQs

How is "desk check" used in software development?

In software development, a "desk check" refers to a manual review of code or algorithms by a developer to identify potential errors or inefficiencies before formal testing. It's a preliminary step to ensure basic correctness.

What does a "desk check" involve?

A "desk check" typically involves a developer or engineer stepping through the code or process manually, line by line, or step by step, to simulate its execution and verify the expected outcomes. It's often performed using printed code or documentation.

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "desk check"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "manual review", "code walkthrough", or "preliminary verification" depending on the context. A "workstation audit" is more detailed but may not capture the quick nature of a desk check.

What's the difference between a "desk check" and formal testing?

A "desk check" is an informal, manual process performed by an individual developer. Formal testing, on the other hand, involves a structured, documented process often carried out by a dedicated testing team using specialized tools and methodologies.