Understanding the Difference Between Check Up and Checkup

Check up vs. Checkup

These two words may look and sound the same, but they mean something different. Let’s learn about them!

History

The words “check up” and “checkup” come from the word “check,” which means to look at something to see if it is right or good. Over time, people started using these words a bit differently.

How to Use Them

Check up: “Check up” is a two-word phrase. It is a verb phrase. It means to look or ask about something or someone to make sure everything is okay.

Checkup: “Checkup” is a one-word noun. It is usually about a visit to the doctor to see if you are healthy.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, “check up” has two words, like a short action you do (a verb). “Checkup” is one word and usually a thing you get, like a doctor’s visit (a noun).

Example Sentences for “Check up”

1. I will check up on my brother to see if he is awake.
2. The teacher checked up on the students during the test.
3. Please check up on your plants and water them.
4. She always checks up on her friends when they are sick.
5. Did you check up on the weather for tomorrow?

Example Sentences for “Checkup”

1. I have a doctor’s checkup next week.
2. Every year, I go for a health checkup to stay healthy.
3. The dentist said I need a checkup in six months.
4. The baby’s first checkup was perfect, the doctor said.
5. After the accident, he needed a medical checkup.

Summary

Use “check up” to talk about asking or looking into something. Use “checkup” when talking about a doctor’s visit. The main difference is that “check up” is an action (verb), while “checkup” is a thing you do or need (noun).