Definition

1. Verb:
   • To check once more to be absolutely sure: To examine, verify, or confirm something a second time, typically with extra care, to ensure its accuracy, correctness, or safety.

Usage

The verb "double-check" is used when one wants to eliminate errors or oversights by performing a second, often more thorough, verification. It implies a deliberate and careful action to confirm a previous check. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts related to work, travel, safety procedures, and daily tasks.

Examples

• Verb:
  • Always double-check your calculations before submitting the report.
  • I double-checked that the door was locked before leaving the house.
  • The pilot double-checks the instrument readings before takeoff.

Advanced Usage

• "to double-check with someone": To verify information or get confirmation from another person.
  • I need to double-check those figures with the accounting department.
• "to double-check for something": To look over something again specifically to find or confirm the presence/absence of a particular thing.
  • Please double-check the document for any spelling errors.

Variants and Related Words

• Double-check can also function as a noun, though less commonly.
  • Give the list a final double-check before we print it.
• Recheck (verb): To check again. (Similar, but "double-check" often implies a more intentional, cautious second look).
• Verify (verb): To confirm the truth or accuracy of something.

Synonyms

• Confirm: To establish the truth or correctness of something.
• Re-examine: To look at or consider something again.
• Re-verify: To verify again.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(While "double-check" itself is not typically used with particles to form phrasal verbs, it is often followed by prepositional phrases as shown in "Advanced Usage.")

Related Idioms

• "Better safe than sorry": This common saying encapsulates the reason for double-checking—it's preferable to be cautious than to face negative consequences later. The action of double-checking is a practical application of this principle.
  • I know it takes time, but double-checking the address is better safe than sorry.

Verb

1. check once more to be absolutely sure