Checks: meaning, definitions and examples

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checks

 

[tʃɛks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

financial transaction

A check is a written order directing a bank to pay a specified amount of money from a person's account to another individual or business. Checks are often used for transactions where cash payments are not feasible. They contain the payer's bank information, account number, and the amount to be paid. While checks are becoming less common with the rise of electronic payments, they remain a trusted form of payment in many circumstances.

Synonyms

bank draft, cheque, payment order.

Examples of usage

  • I wrote a check for my rent payment.
  • She received a check for her birthday gift.
  • He cashed a check at the bank.
  • The company issued a check for the refund.
Context #2 | Verb

inspect or verify

To check means to examine something in order to ensure accuracy, quality, or the existence of certain conditions. It is often used in various contexts such as checking a list, verifying data, or inspecting an item. The act of checking is essential in numerous fields, including education, finance, and health. Regular checks help maintain standards and prevent errors.

Synonyms

examine, inspect, review, verify.

Examples of usage

  • Please check your email for the latest updates.
  • I need to check the ingredients before cooking.
  • She checked the measurements before cutting.
  • The technician will check the machine for issues.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old French word 'eschequier', meaning 'to check' or 'to verify', reflecting the importance of verification in payments.
  • Originally, checks were used in medieval trade to prevent fraud by documenting exchanges.
  • The use of checks expanded significantly in the 19th century with the rise of the banking system, allowing people to make payments without cash.

History

  • Checks became widely used during the Industrial Revolution as a means for businesses to manage transactions more efficiently.
  • The first recorded use of a bank check dates back to the 16th century in England, making it one of the oldest forms of payment.
  • In the 20th century, checks transitioned from handwritten notes to printed forms used in banking, enhancing security.

Pop Culture

  • Checks often appear in movies and shows as symbols of wealth or sophistication, depicting characters who are financially savvy.
  • The phrase 'check please!' is well-known in dining scenarios, indicative of settling bills with checks or cards.
  • The popularity of checks has led to humorous memes and jokes about how many people prefer digital payments nowadays.

Technology

  • The introduction of electronic checks (eChecks) has revolutionized how payments are processed, simplifying transactions using technology.
  • Digital banking apps often allow users to deposit checks by taking a picture with their smartphones, making checks more convenient.
  • Fraud prevention technology is constantly evolving to secure checks against counterfeiting and unauthorized use.

Financial Literacy

  • Writing a check requires knowledge of its parts, such as the date, payee name, amount, and signature, reflecting financial responsibility.
  • While checks are still used, many younger people now prefer instant digital payments due to speed and convenience.
  • Understanding checks is essential for managing personal finances, as they represent a commitment to pay money out of one's bank account.

Translations

Translations of the word "checks" in other languages:

🇵🇹 verificações

🇮🇳 जांच

🇩🇪 Überprüfungen

🇮🇩 pemeriksaan

🇺🇦 перевірки

🇵🇱 sprawdzenia

🇯🇵 チェック

🇫🇷 vérifications

🇪🇸 comprobaciones

🇹🇷 kontroller

🇰🇷 검사

🇸🇦 فحوصات

🇨🇿 kontroly

🇸🇰 kontroly

🇨🇳 检查

🇸🇮 preverjanja

🇮🇸 skoðanir

🇰🇿 тексерулер

🇬🇪 შეფასებები

🇦🇿 nəzarətlər

🇲🇽 chequeos

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,233, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.