der Check
check
An inspection or check to determine whether everything is in order, working properly, or safe.
EXAMPLE
Vor dem Urlaub machen wir immer einen kurzen Check beim Auto.
Before vacation, we always do a quick check on the car.
der Check
check
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Meanings
der Check
check
In ice hockey, intentional body contact used to separate an opposing player from the puck or stop them.
EXAMPLE
Der Spieler erhielt eine Zweiminutenstrafe für einen unerlaubten Check.
The player received a two-minute penalty for an illegal check.
der Check
check
A paper form of payment with which you instruct your bank to pay a specific amount of money to a person or company. The official German spelling is 'Scheck' (check).
EXAMPLE
In den USA ist es noch üblich, Rechnungen per Check zu bezahlen.
In the U.S., it is still common to pay bills by check.
Usage tips
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'Überprüfung' (check/inspection), 'Check' is often combined with verbs like 'machen' (to do/make) or 'durchführen' (to carry out). It is also a common component of compound nouns such as 'Sicherheits-Check' (security check), 'Gesundheits-Check' (health check), or 'Auto-Check' (car check).
EXAMPLE
Vor dem Abflug führen die Piloten einen letzten Check durch.
Before takeoff, the pilots carry out one final check.
Special spelling
For the payment method, the official German spelling is 'der Scheck' (the check). The form 'der Check' is sometimes used under English influence, but in this context it is less common and considered incorrect.
EXAMPLE
Früher war es normal, die Miete mit einem Scheck zu bezahlen.
In the past, it was normal to pay the rent with a check.
Meaning in context
The meaning of 'Check' can almost always be understood from the context. If it is about control and safety, it means an inspection or check. In a sports context, especially in ice hockey, it is body contact. If it is about money and banks, it means a payment method.
EXAMPLE
Der Türsteher machte einen kurzen Check meiner Tasche.
The bouncer did a quick check of my bag.
Compare with
Check vs Kontrolle
control / check
Kontrolle and Check can both refer to checking whether something is working properly or is safe. Kontrolle sounds neutral and also fits formal contexts. Check usually sounds more informal and modern, especially for a brief check in everyday situations.
Check
Vor der Fahrt mache ich noch einen kurzen Check der Bremsen.
Before setting off, I’ll do one more quick check of the brakes.
Kontrolle
Der offizielle Bericht bestätigt die gründliche Kontrolle der Bremsen.
The official report confirms the thorough inspection of the brakes.
In real life
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