ENGLISH
REFERENCE

check in at

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. To register your arrival at a place like a hotel or an airport, so they know you are there.

phrasal verb. To register one's presence upon arrival at a hotel, airport, or event, often as a required procedure.


SIMPLE

We need to check in at the hotel now.

CONTEXTUAL

You should check in at the airport at least two hours before your flight departs.

COMPLEX

After a long journey, the weary travelers were relieved to finally check in at the quaint seaside inn they had booked months in advance.

Particles
in
Separability
optional
Pattern
check + in (+ at + location)
Usage

Commonly followed by 'at' for a location or 'for' for a service like a flight.

Teaching tip

Contrast with its direct opposite, 'check out' (to leave a hotel), and the related phrasal verb 'check on' (to see if someone is okay).

Pitfall

I need to check in the airport.I need to check in at the airport.Use the preposition 'at' to specify the location where you are registering your arrival.

Last updated April 24, 2026