Check Out Cheques: A Tale of Two Words

Check Out Cheques: A Tale of Two Words

Understanding the Difference: Check vs. Cheque

In English, the words check and cheque sound the same but have different meanings and uses. Let’s learn about them!

What is “Check”?

The word check comes from the Old French word “eschec,” meaning to stop or block. In English, “check” has many uses:

• To look at something carefully.
• To mark something as correct.
• To stop or pause something.

Example Sentences with “Check”:

1. Can you check my homework, please?
2. She will check the weather before going outside.
3. He checked the answer and found it was correct.
4. Please check your email for the message.
5. The teacher checks each student’s work.

What is “Cheque”?

The word cheque comes from the Arabic word “sakk,” meaning a written note. In English, a “cheque” is a piece of paper that tells a bank to pay money from your account. It is British English.

Example Sentences with “Cheque”:

1. I will write a cheque to pay for the groceries.
2. The cheque was cashed at the bank.
3. She received a cheque for her birthday gift.
4. The company sent a cheque for the work done.
5. Do not forget to sign the cheque before giving it.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember which is which, think: “Check the test, Write a Cheque”.

Summary

Check is about looking or stopping, used in American English. Cheque is a paper to get money, used in British English. Both words sound the same but have different meanings and uses. Remember the examples to use them correctly!