Phrasal verb
check over
Definitions
01to inspect for errors
phr.v. to look at something carefully to find any mistakes or problems.
phr.v. to examine something thoroughly in order to verify its accuracy, condition, or completeness.
“You should check over your essay for spelling mistakes before you hand it in.”
“The supervisor asked the junior accountant to check over the quarterly figures one last time to ensure no discrepancies remained before the audit.”
Usage
This is a separable phrasal verb; the object can sit between 'check' and 'over'.
02an inspection
n. a quick look at something to make sure it is okay.
n. a brief or systematic inspection intended to identify errors or confirm quality.
“The mechanic gave the car a quick check over before our long road trip.”
“After the final rehearsal, the stage manager gave the props a thorough check over to confirm everything was in its proper place.”
Informal
Usage
Often used with the verb 'give', as in 'give something a check over'.
Teaching tip
While the verb is common, the noun form is more frequent in British English and informal speech.
Synonyms
Teaching tip
contrast with 'check' (general) and 'check out' (to investigate or look at something interesting); 'check over' emphasizes the search for mistakes or faults.
Phrasal verb
Particles
over
Separability
optional
Pattern
check + (object) + over
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related words
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/check-over