keep in check

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'keep in check' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that something should be monitored or restrained. For example, you might say, "We need to keep the budget in check to ensure our expenses don't get too high."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are concerns that I have to consciously keep in check each day, focusing on prayer, positive visualizations of her future and keeping a sense of humor and lightness with her.

Huffington Post

But what a bunch to try and keep in check.

The Guardian - Film

"That's something I try to keep in check," he said.

The New York Times

This is a man seized with cold rage, which he manages to keep in check — just.

The New York Times - Arts

What is essential is the need to keep in check the powers of the state attorney.

The New York Times

It has a thriving consumer economy which it is finding hard to keep in check.

The Economist

But the excitement around this season's team is becoming harder and harder to keep in check.

The Guardian - Sport

"His is a different type of sailor," he said, "hard to keep in check".

The New Yorker

Rather they are in remission, with extremely low levels of the virus that their immune systems keep in check.

The New York Times

He has also done remarkably well, observers say, to keep in check some very big and clashing egos.

The Guardian

But when stress overcomes him, he knows he will need more support "to keep in check with myself".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep in check", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being controlled and why. This adds clarity and strengthens the message.

Common error

Avoid using "keep in check" vaguely. Always specify what you are trying to control to prevent ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "We need to keep things in check", specify "We need to keep spending in check".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep in check" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It signifies the act of controlling, restraining, or limiting something, ensuring it doesn't exceed acceptable boundaries. Ludwig examples confirm the phrase is often used to describe the action of controlling something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep in check" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies controlling or restraining something to prevent it from exceeding acceptable limits. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for various professional and general communication contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what needs controlling to enhance clarity and effectiveness. Alternative phrases like "curb" or "restrain" can be used for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep under control

This alternative is a more emphatic version of "keep in check", highlighting the act of maintaining control.

curb

This alternative suggests limiting or controlling something undesirable.

restrain

This alternative implies holding back or limiting something's movement or expression.

contain

This alternative means preventing something from spreading or escalating.

control

This alternative is a more general term for exerting influence over something.

hold back

This alternative implies preventing someone or something from progressing or expressing themselves fully.

regulate

This alternative suggests controlling something according to rules or laws.

manage

This alternative refers to handling or directing something effectively.

place limitations on

This alternative refers to restricting something's scope or extent.

monitor

This alternative means observing and supervising something to ensure it stays within certain limits.

FAQs

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

You can use "keep in check" to indicate the act of controlling or restraining something. For example, "It's important to "keep emotions in check" during a negotiation" or "The government needs to "keep inflation in check" to maintain economic stability".

What's a more formal way to say "keep in check"?

More formal alternatives to "keep in check" include "regulate", "curb", or "restrain", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "keep in check" or "keep under check"?

"Keep in check" is the more common and idiomatic expression. While "keep under check" might be understood, it is less frequently used.

What's the difference between "keep in check" and "monitor"?

"Keep in check" implies active control or restraint, while "monitor" suggests observation and tracking without necessarily involving direct intervention. You "monitor progress" but "keep spending in check".