in check

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in check" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe when something is under control or is being monitored, such as in the sentence "The government is keeping the spread of the virus in check."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Inflation remains in check.

The New York Times

Inflation was in check.

The New York Times

Expectations are kept in check.

The New York Times

Wisdom keeps power in check.

The New York Times - Arts

Keep your disappointment in check.

The New York Times

They keep noise in check.

The New York Times - Food

It keeps me in check".

The Guardian - Film

Let's get this in CHECK.

The Guardian - Music

He keeps me in check".

The New York Times

"Keep the speculation in check".

The Guardian

Freezing temperatures keep insect populations in check.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in check" to indicate something is being actively monitored or controlled to prevent undesirable outcomes. For example, "Keep your expectations in check" advises managing hopes to avoid disappointment.

Common error

Avoid using "in check" when referring to something that's already completely resolved or impossible to influence. "The event is in check" is incorrect if the event has already happened; instead, use "The event was a success."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in check" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or noun. It describes a state of being controlled, restrained, or regulated. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. For instance, "keep your expectations in check" indicates a need to manage expectations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

34%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in check" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate control, restraint, or regulation. According to Ludwig AI, it is commonly employed across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Formal & Business settings. When writing, remember to use "in check" to convey active monitoring or management of something to prevent undesirable outcomes. Be mindful not to apply it to situations already resolved or beyond influence. For alternatives, consider "under control" or "kept in check" to add nuance to your expression. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively integrate "in check" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under control

Focuses on the state of being managed or governed effectively.

kept in check

Highlights the ongoing action of maintaining control.

held in check

Similar to 'kept in check', but suggests a more forceful or deliberate holding back.

under restraint

Emphasizes the act of holding back or limiting something.

restrained

Emphasizes the act of limiting or holding back, often emotions or impulses.

within bounds

Suggests that something is operating within acceptable limits.

curbed

A concise way of saying something has been restrained or limited.

under regulation

Implies a more formal or official system of control.

managed effectively

Highlights the competence in handling or directing something.

in order

Focuses on a state of neatness, organization, or proper functioning.

FAQs

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

You can use "in check" to describe something that is under control or being monitored. For example, "We need to keep expenses "under control"" or "The doctor said the disease is "under control" now".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "in check"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "under control", "under restraint", or "kept in check" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more appropriate to say "in check" or "under control"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. However, "in check" suggests a more active and ongoing effort to maintain control, while "under control" might imply a more general state of being managed.

What does it mean to say something is "kept in check"?

To say something is "kept in check" means that it is being actively restrained or controlled to prevent it from becoming excessive or problematic. It's similar to saying it's "under control", but emphasizes the ongoing effort to maintain that state.