# checklist

/ˈtʃɛˌkɫɪst/ (US) · /tʃˈɛklɪst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/checklist
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. list of tasks

noun · CEFR B1

a list of things you need to do or check to make sure everything is finished correctly.

For teachers: a list of items or tasks to be verified, completed, or checked off as a memory aid or to ensure procedural compliance.

- I have a checklist for my holiday to make sure I don't forget my passport.
- The surgical team followed a rigorous safety checklist before the operation to minimize the risk of avoidable complications.

Usage: Often used with the verbs 'follow', 'complete', or 'go through'.

### 2. to add to a list

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

to put something on a list of things to be checked.

For teachers: to enter an item into a formal list for verification or tracking purposes.

- The scientist checklisted every new bird species she saw in the forest.
- The field researchers checklisted the observed flora according to the established taxonomic guidelines for the region.

Usage: This transitive verb use is less common than the noun form and often appears in technical or scientific contexts.

## Examples

- She used a checklist to pack her bags.
- The pilot ran through the pre-flight checklist before starting the engines.
- Implementing a standardized safety checklist reduced human error in the operating room by nearly half.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.