phrasal verb · academic
keep in check
UK/kiːp ɪn ˈtʃek/US/kip ɪn ˈtʃek/KEEP·in·CHECK
task2speaking
prevent something from becoming too large, powerful, or harmful; control
Examples
“Strong regulations can keep monopolies in check.”
“She tries to keep her emotions in check during meetings.”
“Fiscal policy should keep inflation in check without harming growth.”
Band 8 sentence
“Effective oversight can keep speculative bubbles in check while allowing healthy investment.”
Collocations
- keep inflation in check
- keep emotions in check
- keep growth in check
Word family
keep verbcheck noun/verb
Common mistakes
keep on check inflation→keep inflation in check
keep check of→keep in check
Say it for a higher band
5control→6curb→7+keep in check
Synonyms
curb
control
Easily confused
curb
“The new law aims to curb excessive speculation in the housing market.”
Related words
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