1 B1 neutral
To carefully examine a document or piece of work to find mistakes or confirm accuracy.
"Before you submit your application, make sure to check it over for spelling errors."
separable
check over
B1 neutral separable transitive
To examine something carefully and thoroughly to find errors or confirm that everything is in order.
In plain English
To read or look at something carefully to make sure there are no mistakes.
What does "check over" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To physically examine a machine, vehicle, or person to ensure everything is working or in good health.
"The mechanic checked the car over before we drove it to Scotland."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To pass a checking eye 'over' the whole surface or content of something.
Actually means
To read or look at something carefully to make sure there are no mistakes.
Usage tip
Commonly used for documents, reports, essays, vehicles, and medical examinations. Implies a complete review rather than a partial one. British and American English both use this form with equal frequency.
Words that pair with "check over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
report essay contract work car figures
How to conjugate "check over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
check over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
checks over
he/she/it
Past simple
checked over
yesterday
Past participle
checked over
have + pp
-ing form
checking over
continuous
Hear "check over" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "check over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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