What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
check
Example
I need to check my email to see if I received any important messages. [check: verb]
Example
The teacher did a quick check of the students' homework to ensure they completed it. [check: noun]
inspect
Example
The inspector will inspect the building to ensure it meets safety regulations. [inspect: verb]
Example
Before purchasing a used car, it's important to do a thorough inspection to check for any hidden issues. [inspection: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Check is more commonly used than inspect in everyday language. Check is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while inspect is less common and typically used in more specific or formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between check and inspect?
While check is generally associated with a casual and informal tone, inspect is more formal and commonly used in professional or technical contexts.