Differences between check by and tick by

Check by means to visit a place briefly to see if everything is okay or to confirm something, whereas tick by means to pass by or move past something quickly without stopping.

Meanings and Definitions: check by vs tick by

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Check by

1Visit a place to check something.
We CHECKED BY the office to see if the stuff was ready.

Tick by

1Pass ( of time ).
The seconds TICKED BY and the team failed to score.

Usage Examples: check by, tick by in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

check by

Example

I will check by the store to see if they have the item in stock.

Example

She checks by the bakery every morning to buy fresh bread.

tick by

Example

As the hours tick by, she becomes more and more anxious.

Example

Time ticks by as we wait for the bus to arrive.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Check by

drop in

To visit someone briefly and informally.

Example

I'm going to drop in on my friend after work to see how she's doing.

stop by

To visit a place briefly and informally.

Example

I need to stop by the grocery store on my way home to pick up some milk.

swing by

To visit a place briefly and informally, usually on the way to another destination.

Example

I'm going to swing by the bank before heading to the airport.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tick by

pass by

To move past something or someone without stopping.

Example

I saw the parade pass by my window this morning.

go by

To move past or elapse, usually in reference to time.

Example

Time seems to go by so quickly when you're having fun.

slip by

To pass by unnoticed or without being noticed.

Example

The deadline slipped by me, and I missed the opportunity to apply for the scholarship.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “check”

Phrasal Verbs with “tick”

Phrasal Verbs with “by”

Differences in check by vs tick by: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: check by or tick by?

In daily conversation, people use check by more often than tick by. This is because check by is used for more practical purposes such as checking on someone or something, while tick by is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about time passing. So, while both phrases are used, check by is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of check by and tick by

Check by and tick by are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of check by and tick by

The tone of check by and tick by can differ based on context. Check by often carries a concerned or responsible tone when related to checking on someone or something, while tick by typically has a casual and neutral tone, especially when referring to the passage of time.

check by & tick by: Synonyms and Antonyms

Check by

Synonyms

visit
drop by
stop by
swing by
pass by
look in
pop in

Antonyms

Tick by

Synonyms

Antonyms