keep in check — to control or limit something so that it does not become too great or dangerous
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to control or limit something so that it does not become too great or dangerous
Pronunciation (IPA): /kiːp ɪn tʃek/
Example Sentences
- My cat tries to keep the mice population in check by hunting every night.
- The government introduced new policies to keep inflation in check.
- I had to keep my laughter in check during the boring meeting, but my stomach was shaking like a washing machine.
keep in check
VERB[/kiːp ɪn tʃek/]
to control or limit something so that it does not become too great or dangerous
The dam workers keep the rising river in check before it floods the village.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase 'keep in check' derives from the chess term 'check', which originated in Old French 'eschec' (from Persian 'shah', meaning king). In chess, 'check' refers to a move that directly threatens the opponent's king, restricting its movement. This sense of constraint was metaphorically extended to mean maintaining control or restraint over something.
Breakdown
keep (to maintain) + in check (in a state of control or restraint, from the chess term 'check' meaning the king is under direct threat and restricted in movement).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat tries to keep the mice population in check by hunting every night.”
“The government introduced new policies to keep inflation in check.”
“I had to keep my laughter in check during the boring meeting, but my stomach was shaking like a washing machine.”
“Regular exercise helps keep your weight in check.”
📚Related Words
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