What is check? Pronunciation and usage in English

check means . Learn how to pronounce and use check through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of check

checkverb

/tʃɛk/
Definition & pronunciation of check

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "check" in English. It's a tricky one because it's often mispronounced! Here's a breakdown:

The Correct Pronunciation (American English):

  • Sounds like: /ˈtʃɛk/ (approximately)
  • Breakdown:
    • "ch": Pronounced like the "ch" in "chair" or "church." A quick, sharp sound.
    • "e": Pronounced like the "e" in "bed" or "end." It's a short, open vowel sound.
    • "ck": Pronounced like the "ck" in "back" or "lack." It's a quick, soft "k" sound.

The Correct Pronunciation (British English):

  • Sounds like: /tʃɛk/ (approximately - very slightly different)
  • Same breakdown as above, but with a very slight difference in vowel sound – sometimes a touch more rounded.

Common Mispronunciations & Why They're Wrong:

  • "Chec" (like "check" with a long "e"): This is very common! It’s incorrect.
  • "Check" with a "hay" sound: This happens a lot, especially in American English. It's not the correct way.

Tips to Help You:

  • Focus on the "ch" sound first: Make sure you get that quick "ch" sound right.
  • Keep it short and crisp: “Check” is a quick word. Don't draw it out.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. You can find examples on:
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/check/ (This site has pronunciations from native speakers around the world)
    • Google Translate: Type “check” and click the speaker icon.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia, etc.) Knowing your native language can help me pinpoint potential pronunciation challenges.

Usage and examples with the word check in English

Let's break down how to use the word "check" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with many different meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. To Examine Carefully:

  • Meaning: To look at something closely to make sure it's correct, accurate, or in good condition.
  • Examples:
    • "Please check your work before you submit it." (Proofreading)
    • "I need to check the engine oil." (Maintenance)
    • “The doctor will check your temperature.” (Medical examination)
    • "Can you check if this package is delivered?" (Confirming delivery)

2. To Verify or Confirm:

  • Meaning: To make sure something is true or correct, often by contacting someone or using a source.
  • Examples:
    • "I'll check with my boss about the deadline." (Seeking confirmation)
    • "Let me check the website for the latest prices." (Looking for accurate information)
    • “I’m going to check my bank balance.” (Making sure the number is correct)

3. To Stop Briefly (Informal):

  • Meaning: To pause briefly for a moment. Often used in transportation.
  • Examples:
    • "We'll check in at the hotel." (Arrive and register)
    • "Let's check in at the station before we board." (Arrive and prepare for the train)
    • “We’ll check in our luggage.” (Give it to the airline)

4. "Check Out" (Informal):

  • Meaning: To leave a place, to depart. Also, to examine something as a leisure activity.
  • Examples:
    • "I'm going to check out this new restaurant." (To visit)
    • "I need to check out of the hotel tomorrow." (To leave)
    • "Let's check out some local shops." (Explore)

5. "Check Up On" (Informal):

  • Meaning: To contact someone to see how they are doing or to make sure they are okay.
  • Examples:
    • “I'm going to check up on you after the surgery.” (To see how you’re doing)
    • “Can you check up on the kids while I'm gone?” (To make sure they are safe)

6. "Check Out" (As in, to evaluate/judge):

  • Meaning: To assess something (often performance or a skill).
  • Examples:
    • “The manager will check out your performance.” (To evaluate your work)
    • "The judges will check out the entries." (To assess the submissions)

7. "Check In" (Specific Systems - Airports, Hotels, etc.):

  • Meaning: To register for a service, usually involving providing identification and detailed information.
  • Examples:
    • "We need to check in for our flight an hour before departure." (Register for the flight)
    • "You must check in at the front desk when you arrive at the hotel.” (Register for the hotel stay)

8. "Check Against" / “Check To”

  • Meaning: To compare something with a standard, a list, or a prior version.
  • Examples:
    • "Let's check against the official schedule." (Compare)
    • "You should check to see if you have all the necessary documents.” (Compare to a list)

Key Differences & Considerations:

  • Formal vs. Informal: "Check" is more common in informal speech and writing. "Verify" or "confirm" are generally more formal.
  • Context is Crucial: The precise meaning of "check" depends heavily on the context of the sentence.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted information, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to do with the word "check"? (e.g., write a sentence, understand a conversation, etc.)

Synonyms for the word check

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