check
The word carries a strong sense of verification and control. It is the act of creating a safety net by confirming that reality matches an expectation. Whether it is a quick glance at a watch or a rigorous audit of financial records, the feeling is one of reducing uncertainty.
In a social or professional context, it often implies a power dynamic of oversight. When someone checks another person's work, there is an implicit hierarchy of correction. In a more aggressive sense, checking someone means putting them in their place or limiting their influence to prevent them from becoming too dominant.
Countable when referring to a physical document or a mark (a bank check, a check mark). Uncountable when referring to the general process of verification (a thorough check of the equipment).
Meanings
To examine something to determine its accuracy, quality, or condition.
Please check the oil level in the car.
To stop or slow down the progress or growth of something.
The government took measures to check the inflation rate.
To verify information or a fact.
I need to check if the store is still open.
A mark used to indicate that something has been verified or completed.
Put a check in the box if you agree.
Examples
Phrasal Verbs
check in
to register one's arrival at a hotel or airport
We need to check in at the hotel before noon.
check out
to leave a hotel after paying the bill or to examine something interesting
They checked out of the resort at 10 AM.
check up on
to investigate someone's progress or behavior to ensure everything is correct
The manager likes to check up on his employees every hour.
check off
to mark an item on a list as completed
Please check off the items as you pack them into the box.
check over
to examine something carefully to find mistakes
You should check over your essay one last time before submitting it.