check out

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Explanation of "Check Out"

Basic Definition: The phrase "check out" is a versatile phrasal verb in English that can mean different things based on the context. Generally, it can refer to:

Usage Instructions

• Context is key: Use "check out" when you want to say that you’re examining something, leaving a place, or recommending something to someone.
• Follow with an object: It often takes an object, like "the apples," "the new professor," or "that movie."

Examples

1. To inspect: "I need to check out those new shoes before I buy them."
2. To leave a hotel: "We have to check out of the hotel by 11 AM."
3. To borrow: "I want to check out some books from the library."
4. To recommend: "You should check out that new cafe downtown!"

Advanced Usage

• In Business: "Let’s check out the competition before we launch our product."
• In Technology: "You can check out the latest updates on our website."

Word Variants

• Checkout (noun): Refers to the place where you pay for your items in a store. For example, "I waited in line at the checkout."
• Checked-out (adjective): Can describe someone who is distracted or not engaged. For example, "He seemed checked-out during the meeting."

Different Meanings

1. To verify or confirm: "Make sure to check out the facts before you share the news."
2. To examine for quality: "I need to check out the brakes on my car."
3. To announce departure: "We checked out of the hotel early in the morning."

Synonyms

• Examine: "I need to examine my options."
• Inspect: "Let’s inspect the car before buying it."
• Verify: "Please verify that information."

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• Check in: This is the opposite of "check out" and refers to arriving at a hotel or airport and registering.
• Check up on: To look into something or someone to ensure they are doing alright. For example, "I will check up on my friend after her surgery."

Summary

"Check out" is a flexible phrase that can mean to inspect, leave a place, borrow something, or recommend something interesting.

Academic

Verb

1. try to learn someone's opinions and intentions
   • I have to sound out the new professor
2. withdraw money by writing a check
3. record, add up, and receive payment for items purchased
   • She was checking out the apples that the customer had put on the conveyer belt
4. trace
   • We are running down a few tips
5. be verified or confirmed; pass inspection
   • These stories don't check!
6. announce one's departure from a hotel
7. examine so as to determine accuracy, quality, or condition
   • check the brakes
   • Check out the engine

Synonyms

• sound out
• feel out
• cheque
• run down
• check
• check up on
• look into
• suss out
• check over
• go over
• check into