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Definition
A keyword: an important word to learn check1   Show phonetics
verb
1 EXAMINE [I,T] to examine something in order to make sure that it is correct or the way it should be
[+ (that)] I went to check that I'd locked the door.
Have you checked your facts?
I knelt down beside the body and checked for a pulse.
I haven't had my eyes checked recently.

2 FIND OUT [I,T] to find out about something
[+ question word] I'll check whether Peter knows about the party.

3 ASK [I] to ask someone for permission to do something
I'd like to stay overnight, but I need to check with my parents.

4 STOP [T] to stop something bad from increasing or continuing
The government needs to find a way to check rising inflation.

5 MARK [T] US (UK tick) to put a mark by an answer to show that it is correct, or by an item on a list to show that you have dealt with it

6 LEAVE [T] US to leave your coat, bags, or other possessions temporarily in someone's care
Passengers on this flight will be allowed one carry-on bag, and will have to check any additional bags.
See also: double-check

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