Understanding the Difference Between Check in and Check-in

Difference Between “Check in” and “Check-in”

The words “Check in” and “Check-in” may look the same, but they have different uses in English. Knowing when to use them can help you speak and write correctly.

History

Both words come from the English word “check,” which means to look at something to make sure it is okay. “In” is a small word that means going inside or being part of something. Together, they have special meanings.

How to Use “Check in”

The phrase “Check in” is an action. It is a verb and tells us what someone is doing. You use it when you arrive at a place like a hotel or airport to let them know you are there.

Examples for “Check in”:

• I will check in at the hotel when I arrive.
• Please check in at the front desk before your meeting.
• We need to check in at the airport two hours early.
• Did you check in online for your flight?
• Let’s check in with the teacher about our project.

How to Use “Check-in”

The word “Check-in” is a thing. It is a noun and talks about the place or the time when you check in. You use it when talking about the desk where you tell someone you have arrived or the activity itself.

Examples for “Check-in”:

• The hotel check-in is on the second floor.
• The check-in process was very fast and easy.
• Our flight check-in starts at 6:00 AM.
• She had a hard time finding the right check-in line.
• The check-in counter closes one hour before the flight.

Trick to Remember the Difference

If you are talking about doing something, use “Check in” because actions (verbs) usually have a space. If you are talking about a place or activity (a noun), use “Check-in” with a dash.

Summary

“Check in” is a verb, and you use it to say what you or someone else is doing. “Check-in” is a noun, and you use it to talk about a place or the process of checking in.