have been checking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have been checking" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate an ongoing action that started in the past and continues into the present. Example: "I have been checking my emails regularly to stay updated on any important messages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Libyans and other Arabs have been checking out Ukraine.

The Economist

Recruiters have been checking their windows and surroundings each morning.

The New York Times

"We have been checking 20-30 badger setts every night.

The Guardian

Since its arrival, engineers have been checking out the orbiter's systems and gear.

The New York Times - Science

People in the stands have been checking their smartphones and listening on radios.

The New York Times

The critics have been checking out Mr. Fatone all week, and some reviews are expected today.

The New York Times

The city authorities have been checking the availability of bomb shelters in basements and factories.

The Guardian

"All my faculty people from Baylor's O.B.G.Y.N. program have been checking with one another.

The New Yorker

Every little piece of the boat I have been checking religiously".

The Guardian - Sport

"The Taliban have been checking the trafficking routes," he said indignantly.

The New York Times

Since then, engineers have been checking out the spacecraft before turning on the instruments, including the camera.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "have been checking" with a more specific verb to enhance the precision of your writing. For example, use "inspecting" or "monitoring".

Common error

Avoid using "have been checking" when a simple past tense ("checked") or present perfect tense ("have checked") would be more appropriate. The continuous tense implies an ongoing action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have been checking" functions as a present perfect continuous verb phrase. It indicates an action that started in the past and is still ongoing or has recently finished. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, like engineers checking systems or people checking routes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have been checking" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that indicates an action of verification or monitoring that started in the past and continues into the present. Ludwig's AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts, from news reports to scientific analyses. While versatile, it's important to ensure the continuous tense accurately reflects the ongoing nature of the action. Consider more specific alternatives like "verifying" or "inspecting" for enhanced precision. Ultimately, understanding its proper usage ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have been verifying

Focuses specifically on confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

have been inspecting

Implies a detailed and careful examination of something.

have been monitoring

Suggests ongoing observation to detect changes or issues.

have been reviewing

Indicates a formal assessment or evaluation of something.

have been scrutinizing

Emphasizes a critical and thorough examination, often looking for flaws.

have been auditing

Refers to a systematic and independent examination of records or accounts.

have been assessing

Involves evaluating the quality, importance, or value of something.

have been tracking

Implies following the progress or development of something over time.

have been overseeing

Suggests supervising or managing something to ensure it's done correctly.

have been keeping tabs on

Indicates close observation or monitoring, often informally.

FAQs

How can I use "have been checking" in a sentence?

You can use "have been checking" to indicate an action of verification or inspection that started in the past and is ongoing. For example, "The engineers "have been checking the systems" since yesterday".

What are some alternatives to "have been checking"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "have been verifying", "have been monitoring", or "have been inspecting".

Is it correct to say "have been check" instead of "have been checking"?

No, "have been check" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form requires the present participle, which is "checking". Therefore, the accurate phrase is "have been checking".

What's the difference between "have been checking" and "have checked"?

"Have been checking" implies an ongoing or repeated action over a period of time, while "have checked" indicates a completed action. For example, "I have been checking the weather all morning" versus "I "have checked" the weather for tomorrow".