hold/keep something in check phrase meaning

Hold/Keep Something in Check

Definition: To maintain control over or to restrain something, preventing it from becoming too powerful, prevalent, or out of control.

Usage:

• “The gardener used natural pesticides to keep the aphid population in check.”
• “She practiced deep breathing exercises to hold her anxiety in check.”

Etymology: The phrase “in check” originates from the game of chess, where placing the opponent’s king in “check” means it is under direct threat of capture, prompting them to take action to remove the threat. Over time, the term has extended into broader usage to mean containing or controlling something.

Pronunciation: /hoʊld kɪp ˈsʌm θɪŋ ɪn tʃɛk/

Synonyms:

• Control
• Restrain
• Contain
• Curb
• Regulate

Antonyms:

• Release
• Liberate
• Unleash
• Allow
• Permit

This phrase emphasizes the act of exerting control to prevent an undesirable outcome, akin to strategic moves in chess meant to manage threat.

1. It’s essential to hold our emotions in check during the heated debate to maintain a civil discussion.
2. The new regulations aim to keep inflation in check and ensure economic stability.
3. She managed to hold her excitement in check until the surprise party was revealed.
4. The team needs to keep their opponents in check to secure the win in the final minutes of the game.
5. To maintain a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to hold your cravings for junk food in check.

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