checked - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
checked Word Meanings
- to examine something
- to stop or slow down
- a written order to pay money
checked Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
checked Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/tʃɛk/
US
/tʃɛk/
checked Word Etymology
check: from Old French 'eschequier' (to check a game) + Middle English 'checken' (to stop). Visualize a referee checking a game, raising a flag to signal a stop.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean in and move a page closer, holding the edge with a finger as I study the numbers. My eyes shift from line to line, push and pull the margins until the totals align and the page feels right in my grip. A small change in posture or grip makes the amount settle, and I keep watching the result, deciding what it means to me. In that steadiness, the act becomes a check, a moment of control that comes from doing rather than saying.
Real Context
Check is a small, versatile English word with several distinct uses. As a verb it means to examine or verify something, and it can also mean to stop or slow movement—e. g., to check the pace of a run. In everyday speech you’ll encounter many phrasal verbs built with check: check in, check out, check up on, and check on someone. As an adjective, you’ll see it in compounds like check pattern (a plaid design) or check shirt. As a noun it can mean a written order to pay money (a cheque is the British spelling). Its etymology traces to Old French eschequier and Middle English checken; the image of a referee signaling a stoppage helps learners remember the stopping sense. Learners often mix up cheque/check and confuse noun vs verb uses.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: check as examine; check as stop; check in/check out; check up on someone; check spelling and punctuation
Common Misconceptions
- Check is not only about looking at something; it can also slow or stop movement.
- Cheque and check refer to different spellings in British English; the meaning changes with the noun vs verb.
- Check in/out are phrasal verbs with different nuances from plain 'check'; learn their contexts.
- Do not confuse check with 'cozy' expressions like 'checklist' vs 'checklist experience'.
- A check can be a noun (the bank document) or a verb (to inspect); use articles accordingly.
Thinking Differences
English tends to split check into many precise senses (examine, stop, bank document, etc.), so learners must map each sense to different contexts rather than relying on a single core meaning.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses (examine, stop, financial), plus common phrasal verbs.
- Make mini glossaries of collocations (check in/out, check on, check up on).
- Practice among contexts: documents, pace, and money orders.
- Watch for spelling shifts with cheque/cheque when reading British texts.
- Create visual mnemonics: referee signaling stop for the 'stop' sense.
- Use checklist sentences to connect to the noun sense.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'checked' mean?
A.To examine or verify
B.To move quickly
C.To paint or create patterns
D.To rest or lay down
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'checked' in a sentence.
A.She checked the apple to see if it was ripe.
B.He checked the time before leaving.
C.They checked their shoes before entering the house.
D.I checked my homework after eating.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym of the word 'checked'?
A.verified
B.created
C.lost
D.gained
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym of the word 'checked'?
A.confirmed
B.observed
C.ignored
D.studied
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where you might use the word 'checked'?
A.Before you finish a project, you often look over your work for errors.
B.During a game, you quickly noted the score.
C.In a meeting, you quietly listened to the discussions.
D.On your way home, you saw a bouquet of flowers.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App