spot check

¹

noun

1. a random sampling or quick sample investigation.

   A spot check showed that at least ten percent of the items were defective.

spot-check

²

[spot-chek]

verb (used with object)

1. to examine or investigate by means of a spot check.

verb (used without object)

1. to conduct a spot check.

spot check

noun

1. a quick random examination

2. a check made without prior warning

verb

1. (tr) to perform a spot check on

Other Word Forms

• spot-checker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spot check¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Origin of spot check²

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

When the special master overseeing a city court-ordered agreement to provide thousands of homeless shelter beds made a spot check at a South Los Angeles shelter she was disappointed in what she found.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The BBC spent two hours with officers carrying out spot checks on gig economy workers including delivery drivers.

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Better data and intelligence sharing between government and the police meant more employers were being caught breaking the rules, the Home Office said, where previously random spot checks were used.

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Authorities have also launched roving patrols of trains, bus terminals and parks, where officials can conduct spot checks on members of the public and search their bags.

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Sharony said her oversight role allowed her to drop in on juvenile facilities with just 48 hours notice to conduct spot checks and review conditions identified in a complaint.

Read more on Los Angeles Times