keep something in check
Controlling a problem
Use in check after keep to describe limiting or controlling something.
Good planning keeps spending in check.
In check or of check?
In check is a common expression meaning under control. Of check is not a standard combination in this meaning.
Quick answer
Which phrase is correct?
Use in check to mean controlled or limited. The phrase of check is not idiomatic for this meaning in modern English.
The medication keeps her symptoms in check.
We must keep costs in check.
We must keep costs in check.
Choose the pattern by meaning
These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.
hold something in check
Preventing growth or spread
Hold in check means restrain or stop something from becoming stronger.
The barriers held the floodwaters in check.
emotions in check
Controlling feelings
In check is often used with emotions, anger, or reactions.
She kept her frustration in check during the meeting.
See the difference in context
The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.
Construction
Example
Meaning
in check
The team kept inflation in check.
under control or limited
of check
Of check is not a standard English expression in this meaning.
nonstandard combination
check on
I called to check on my neighbour.
phrasal use with a different meaning
check for
The nurse checked for injuries.
look for something
Common mistakes
Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.
Using of check for control
English does not use of check to mean controlled.
✕ The disease is of check. ✓ The disease is in check.Omitting the preposition
The fixed expression includes in.
✕ They kept the situation check. ✓ They kept the situation in check.Quick practice
Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.
1. The manager kept expenses ___ check.
2. The medicine kept the infection ___ check.
3. Which phrase is nonstandard for the meaning 'under control'?
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Frequently asked questions
What does in check mean?
It means controlled, limited, or prevented from growing worse.
Is of check ever correct?
Not as a fixed expression meaning under control. It may appear in unrelated technical or fragmented contexts.
Can in check be used with emotions?
Yes. People often say keep your anger in check or keep emotions in check.
Related preposition guides
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