check off
B1 neutral separable transitive
In simple words
To make a little tick or checkmark next to something on a list to show that it is finished.
Literal meaning: To place a check (mark) 'off' beside an item — marking it as dealt with and set aside.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To put a mark next to an item on a list to show it has been completed or confirmed.
"She checked off each ingredient on the recipe as she added it to the bowl."
Grammar: separable
2 B1
idiomatic
informal
To accomplish or complete something, especially as part of a broader set of goals.
"Visiting the Grand Canyon was the last item he needed to check off his travel bucket list."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Common in both literal (paper lists) and figurative (mental lists, goals) contexts. In American English, 'check off' is strongly preferred over 'tick off' for this meaning. Often used with 'list,' 'box,' or 'task.'
Commonly used with
list task item box goal requirement
Forms
Base
check off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
checks off
he/she/it
Past simple
checked off
yesterday
Past participle
checked off
have + pp
-ing form
checking off
continuous
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