periodically checking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "periodically checking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of regularly reviewing or monitoring something over time. Example: "I will be periodically checking the progress of the project to ensure we stay on track."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Abnormalities that could be cancer are easily found by periodically checking the testicles visually and manually.

The New York Times - Health

L. and I go to "Ghostbusters" and sit in the back, periodically checking the corpse cam.

The New Yorker

Megan was periodically checking in with the IWW and black-bloc groups, and returned with news.

The Guardian

It hasn't escaped my notice that Mitnick has spent our conversation periodically checking a mobile phone.

The Guardian - Tech

The charade went on for two months, with Mr. Kaplan periodically checking on Ms. Batkin's availability, and his friend always replying that she was still unavailable.

The New York Times

New technologies have paid off, as have innovative strategies, such as periodically checking on homes where there have been reports of domestic violence.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Bulls officials periodically checked on Williams, who remains hospitalized.

The New York Times - Sports

But Chrysler employees periodically check the water quality themselves.

The New York Times

For the next 13 years they periodically checked in with him.

The New York Times - Arts

They periodically checked real estate listings, "always a depressing process," Mr. Holzenberg said.

The New York Times

Henry periodically checked in with updates: the Girl was en route.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "periodically checking", ensure that the interval between checks is appropriate for the context. For example, "periodically checking" server logs might mean every hour, while "periodically checking" a child's homework could mean daily or weekly.

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "We are periodically checking the system" without indicating how often checks occur. Always specify the frequency (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly) to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "periodically checking" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as part of a continuous verb tense or as a noun. As indicated by Ludwig, it describes the act of inspecting or monitoring something at regular intervals. Examples from Ludwig show it used in various contexts, like "periodically checking the testicles" or "periodically checking our phones."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "periodically checking" is a versatile and correct gerund phrase that describes the act of inspecting or monitoring something at regular intervals. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific sources and is considered to have a neutral register. To improve clarity, specify the frequency of checking. Consider alternatives such as "routinely inspecting" or ""regularly monitoring"" depending on the context. As illustrated by the Ludwig examples, this phrase serves to ensure safety, security, and proper function across domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

routinely inspecting

This alternative emphasizes the regular and systematic nature of the inspection, implying a standard procedure.

regularly monitoring

Focuses on continuous observation over time, highlighting the aspect of keeping track of something.

frequently verifying

Emphasizes the act of confirming or proving the truth or accuracy of something on a recurring basis.

intermittently reviewing

Highlights the occasional nature of the review process, suggesting it's not constant but happens at intervals.

occasionally examining

Focuses on the act of careful and detailed inspection, done from time to time.

systematically assessing

Highlights a structured and methodical evaluation at regular intervals.

repeatedly evaluating

Emphasizes the multiple instances of assessment, suggesting a thoroughness in the process.

constantly overseeing

Focuses on the continuous supervision and management aspect, implying a high level of control.

steadily observing

Highlights the consistent and unwavering nature of the observation.

continually supervising

Implies an ongoing and uninterrupted act of overseeing something.

FAQs

What does "periodically checking" mean?

The phrase "periodically checking" refers to the act of inspecting or monitoring something at regular intervals or from time to time. It suggests that the checking is not continuous, but occurs frequently enough to ensure things are in order.

How can I use "periodically checking" in a sentence?

You can use "periodically checking" to describe any situation where you are inspecting or monitoring something at intervals. For instance, "The system administrator is "regularly monitoring" the server for suspicious activity".

What can I say instead of "periodically checking"?

You can use alternatives like ""regularly monitoring"", "routinely inspecting", or "frequently verifying" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "periodically checking" or "periodic checking"?

"Periodically checking" is a verb phrase describing the action of checking at intervals, while "periodic checking" is a noun phrase referring to the process itself. The choice depends on whether you're describing an action or a process.