What are the definitions of “check on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To verify the condition or status of someone or something.
I sent Michael to check on the kids.
- 2To inspect or monitor.
The boss arrived to check on our progress.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “check on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb check on is to verify the condition or status of someone or something. It is often used when someone wants to make sure that everything is okay or going as planned.
What are the different verb forms of “check on”?
| Root Verb | check on |
| Third Person Singular Present | checks on |
| Present Participle | checking on |
| Simple Past | checked on |
| Past Participle | checked on |
Example
Can you check on the baby while I cook dinner?
Example
She checks on her plants every morning.
Example
He is checking on the progress of the project.
Example
Yesterday, I checked on my friend who was sick.
Example
The teacher had checked on the students' work before grading it.
What kind of phrasal verb is “check on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“check on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She checked on her elderly neighbor.
Example
He checked on the status of his flight.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“check on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She checked on her elderly neighbor.
Example
He checked on the status of his flight.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “check on”?
Good things to know
Does “check on” have an informal or formal tone?
Check on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in a workplace or professional context.
