Do you know when to say ‘check’ and when to say ‘control’? They have similar meanings. Learn about the differences here.
You’ll also learn some of the common collocations we use with these verbs, like check the list and passport control.

Click here to learn how we use the verbs avoid and prevent
Click here to learn how we use the verbs realize, notice and find out
Click here to learn how we use the verbs lend and borrow

Check and control video script

Is something wrong, officer?
Is this your car?
Yes.
When was the last time you checked the air in these tires?
I can’t remember.

Hey, where are the kids?
Oh they’re fine. They’re playing upstairs. I’ll go and check on them.

Checking something: making sure that it’s OK or correct.

Check the list and see if we’ve forgotten anything.
Is this receipt correct?
I’ll check.

OK, are we ready?
Underwear. Check. Socks. Check. Medicines. Check. Passports.

This is a check mark in American English. In British English it’s a tick.

Good boy. I have to put a leash on Carter when I take him out, or else I can’t control him. Let’s go.

Control generally means manage or direct. A roundabout controls the traffic. It manages and directs it.

Ten thousand people gathered in Chestnut Square today for the pro-jobs rally. Police were called in to control the crowds. And now in financial news, the Central Bank has announced new measures to control inflation.

No, I don’t want to buy any life insurance. Stop calling me! I know. I must learn to control my temper.

If you’re talking about inspecting something, use ‘check’. So at passport control, they check people’s passports.

Brrrr. I’m cold. I’ll check the thermostat to see if it’s working. The thermostat controls the temperature. Are you cold, Jay?
No.

Click here to learn how we use the verbs avoid and prevent
Click here to learn how we use the verbs realize, notice and find out
Click here to learn how we use the verbs lend and borrow