in check

1. Restrained from moving or acting; under control. For example, The first division held the enemy in check, or Mary kept her emotions in check. This term replaced at check and out of check, which date from the mid-1500s.

Example Sentences

George Springer's sharp line drive reduced the deficit, but Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto kept the hosts in check, giving up just that one run in six innings pitched.

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A backup offer can also act as a powerful motivator, encouraging the initial buyer to stay committed and keeping expectations in check throughout the closing process.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

It was particularly important to get some yellow rattle seed, which helps keep more dominant grasses in check.

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Apple’s stock momentum has been somewhat held in check by the cloud of tariffs and doubts about the company’s artificial-intelligence positioning.

Read more on MarketWatch

Many environmentalists and scientists maintain that northern spotted owls will go extinct if their competitors aren’t kept in check.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• discreet 
• laid-back 
• mild 
• muted 
• reasonable 
• reticent 
• subdued 
• tasteful 
• unobtrusive