Learn Phrasal Verbs With ‘Check’
Phrasal verbs are a brilliant way to make your English sound more natural and conversational. Today, let’s explore the word ‘check’ and the various ways it changes meaning when paired with prepositions. These are phrases you’ll hear in everyday conversations, so learning them will give your English a real boost.
Here’s a quick guide to some common phrasal verbs with ‘check,’ their meanings, and examples to help you use them confidently. Some of these English phrasal verbs have multiple meanings, so check them out below!
1. Check in
Meaning: To register or confirm your arrival, usually at a hotel or airport.
Examples:
We’ll need to check in at the hotel before 3 p.m.
Don’t forget to check in at the airport at least two hours before your flight.
Pro Tip: This phrase can also mean touching base or seeing how someone is doing:
I’ll check in with you tomorrow to see how you’re feeling.
2. Check out
Meaning 1: To pay and leave a hotel or accommodation.
We need to check out by 11 a.m.
Meaning 2: To examine or look at something.
You have to check out this amazing new restaurant in town!
Meaning 3: To verify or investigate.
I heard about the job opening, so I’m going to check it out.
3. Check up on
Meaning: To look into something or someone to ensure everything is okay.
Examples:
The teacher checked up on the students to make sure they were doing their assignments.
I’ll check up on Mum later to see if she needs anything.
4. Check off
Meaning: To mark items as completed, especially on a list.
Examples:
I love checking off tasks on my to-do list; it’s so satisfying!
She checked off all the ingredients she needed before starting the recipe.
5. Check over
Meaning: To review or inspect something carefully.
Examples:
Could you check over my essay before I submit it?
The mechanic checked over the car to ensure it was safe to drive.
6. Check back
Meaning: To return later to see if something has changed or been updated.
Examples:
I’ll check back tomorrow to see if they have the item in stock.
The website said to check back later for more details.
7. Check against
Meaning: To compare something with a reference or standard.
Examples:
Make sure to check your answers against the answer key.
They checked the data against last year’s reports.
Why Learn Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs like these aren’t just about improving your vocabulary; they’re about understanding how English speakers communicate naturally. They also add variety to your language, making your conversations flow more easily.