Check It Out! Phrasal Verbs and Idioms With "Check"
Phrasal verbs let you use short, simple words in many useful ways. This time, we'll look at new meanings that come from adding prepositions to "check."
The basic verb means "to look and make sure something is present or correct," and this idea is part of many of the examples below.
You might know some of these phrasal verbs already, but a few might surprise you! Let's take a closer look.
Phrasal Verbs With “Check”
Check in
If you've ever flown on an airplane or visited a hotel, then you've probably heard this before.
"Checking in" is confirming that you are present and ready for an event or activity.
Please go to gate 36 to check in for your flight.
It can also be used as an adjective, as in a "check-in counter."
Check out
When you "check out," you officially finish some business or an activity. We don't use it for flights, but it is common at hotels and when shopping.
We have to check out of our hotel room by 10 a.m.
If you're ready to check out, our cash registers are near the entrance.
It can also be used as an adjective.
The checkout desk is located on the second floor.
Additionally, "check out" is an informal way to say "look."
Check out this painting I just finished. I'm pretty proud of it!
Check out that woman over there with the dark hair. She's beautiful.
Related article: 12 Phrasal Verbs Using "Look"
Check off
Each time you complete an item on a list, you "check it off," or make a mark next to it to show that it's done.
We use this expression even if the list is only in our heads and not written down.
Once I've gone to the bank and the laundromat, I can check off all of my tasks for the day.
I'm almost done; I only have one more item on my list to check off.
Check over
"Checking over" something is reviewing it carefully to make sure everything is correct.
Could you check over my email before I send it to the client?
My son asked me to check over his homework before leaving for school.
Check up on
When you "check up on" someone, you look to make sure they're safe and healthy, either physically or mentally.
Jane seemed pretty upset the last time I saw her, so I'm going to check up on her to see if she's OK.
We went to the hospital to check up on Jeff every week until he felt better.
The noun "checkup" is used specifically for visits to doctors, dentists and other medical professionals.
I have an appointment for a medical checkup at 3 p.m. today.
How long has it been since your last checkup?
Check on
"Checking on" is looking to see that things are generally in a good state.
Unlike "check up on," with this phrasal verb, there is no particular reason to be worried or concerned about anything.
I'm going to go check on the baby.
It can also be used to talk about non-living things.
Can you check on the turkey in the oven to make sure it still looks good?
The boss is coming today to check on the project's status.
Check back
"Check back" basically means "to contact again."
He doesn't have the information now, so I'll check back with him next week.
She's not here now, but please check back in an hour.
Other Expressions With “Check”
Checkmate
Meaning: "I win."
This is one of several common expressions that come from chess.
You won the baking contest last year, but I have the better pound cake now. Checkmate!
Checks and balances
Meaning: a system of rules that stops one person or group from having too much power or control
Our organization is built on a system of checks and balances to make sure everything is fair.
Check baggage
Meaning: to give bags to an airline employee before a flight
A
Are you checking any baggage?
B
No, I'm only traveling with my backpack.
Wrap-up
If you listen carefully, you will notice phrasal verbs everywhere in English communication. They are simple but important parts of the language that you'll need to know to speak like a native.
Book a lesson with an Engoo tutor and practice using these verbs and expressions in a real conversation today!
