in check

Idioms  

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.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

in check

However, energy subsidies which keep electricity prices in check will now be restricted to families "in need".

From Barron's ● Sep. 3, 2026

Despite the expense, he supports the government’s efforts to keep congestion in check given the country’s small size.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026

They had to have a buddy, to keep each other in check - which in turn made more children graduate.

From BBC ● Aug. 26, 2026

Olsen: Do you find, especially in the way that your personal and professional lives are intertwined, is it good that you have each other to keep yourselves in check?

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 20, 2026

It’s pretty nice having a New Yorker to help keep me in check on the sidewalks.

From "What If It's Us" by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

Related Words

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