We’ve all typed out “just checking” or “can you check this?” more times than we can count. It’s short. It’s simple. But sometimes…it can come off a little cold or too casual—especially when we’re trying to sound warm, thoughtful, or professional.
The truth is, how we ask someone to check something can set the tone of the whole message. It can either make the person feel rushed or gently guided. So if you’re looking to sound more caring, personal, or polished, this list is here to help. Let’s find the words that fit what you really want to say.
What Does “Check Something” Mean?
At its core, “check something” just means to look at something carefully. It could be checking a document for mistakes, checking on a delivery, or even checking in on a friend.
But depending on how you say it, it might sound too vague, bossy, or rushed. That’s why choosing the right tone and phrase matters.
Is It Polite or Professional to Say “Check Something”?
It depends on the context. “Check” is casual, and while it’s fine for friendly chats or fast emails, it might feel too abrupt in more thoughtful or formal settings.
Example:
“Can you check this?” might sound like a task.
But “Would you mind having a quick look?” feels a little more human.
Pros and Cons of Saying “Check Something”
Pros:
- It’s short and to the point.
- Easy to understand.
- Works well in fast-paced environments.
Cons:
- Can sound rushed or blunt.
- May lack warmth or clarity.
- Not ideal for sensitive or high-stakes communication.
Synonyms for ‘Check Something’
- Review
- Look over
- Take a quick peek
- Have a look
- Double-check
- Go through
- Verify
- Confirm
- Inspect
- Assess
- Cross-check
- Read through
- Take a moment to look at
- Take a glance at
- Revisit
- Examine
- Audit
- Proofread
- Evaluate
- Look into
1. Review
This one feels a bit more polished than “check” and works well in most professional settings. It also gives the sense that you want someone to really think about what they’re looking at—not just skim it.
Scenario Example:
Hi Alex,
When you get a moment, could you review the draft I attached and share your thoughts?
Thanks so much,
Maya
Best Use:
Great for work emails, feedback requests, or any document that needs thoughtful attention.
Additional Note:
Saying “review” shows you value their opinion—it’s a soft nudge with purpose.
2. Look Over
“Look over” is a friendly, slightly informal phrase that still feels intentional. It’s a perfect middle ground.
Scenario Example:
Hey Jamie,
Could you look over the schedule for next week and let me know if anything seems off?
Appreciate it!
– Chris
Best Use:
Good for casual or semi-formal messages, especially with teammates or classmates.
Additional Note:
It feels like you’re inviting someone in—not ordering them around.
3. Take a Quick Peek
This one’s playful and light. It works when you don’t want to make your request sound too heavy.
Scenario Example:
Hi Dani,
Would you mind taking a quick peek at this before I send it off? Just want a second pair of eyes!
Thanks,
Liam
Best Use:
Perfect for low-pressure situations where you just want a once-over.
Additional Note:
It softens the ask and makes it feel like no big deal.
4. Have a Look
Simple, relaxed, and friendly. “Have a look” works in most situations without sounding too pushy.
Scenario Example:
Hi Noor,
Can you have a look at this new layout when you get the chance?
Cheers,
Sam
Best Use:
Everyday conversations, both in and out of work.
Additional Note:
It’s a softer version of “check”—like holding the door open instead of waving someone in.
5. Double-Check
Need someone to make sure everything’s right? This one’s your go-to.
Scenario Example:
Hey Emma,
Could you double-check these figures for me before we share them?
Thanks a ton!
– Ryan
Best Use:
For accuracy and when small mistakes could cause big issues.
Additional Note:
It shows you care about the details—and trust the other person’s eyes too.
6. Go Through
“Go through” adds a feeling of being thorough. It’s not just skimming—it’s looking at something with care.
Scenario Example:
Hi Ella,
Would you mind going through the onboarding guide before tomorrow’s meeting?
Thanks for your help!
– Mark
Best Use:
Ideal when you need someone to carefully read or follow a process.
Additional Note:
It gives the impression that the document might take a little time—but it’s worth it.
7. Verify
This word sounds more official. Use it when accuracy is key or when confirming specific details.
Scenario Example:
Hi Josh,
Could you please verify the invoice total before we process it?
Appreciate your help,
– Lauren
Best Use:
Perfect for finance, data, or anything technical that needs to be 100% right.
Additional Note:
It adds a layer of trust and responsibility—without sounding harsh.
8. Confirm
Short, polite, and easy. “Confirm” is a gentler way to ask someone to check something is correct.
Scenario Example:
Hey Kevin,
Just wanted to ask if you could confirm the time of tomorrow’s client call.
Thanks!
– Nina
Best Use:
Great when coordinating details like dates, times, or facts.
Additional Note:
It’s quick and respectful—like a friendly heads-up, not a demand.
9. Inspect
“Inspect” sounds a bit more formal and detailed. It’s great when something needs to be looked at very closely.
Scenario Example:
Hi Priya,
Can you inspect the packaging on the new shipment and let me know if anything looks off?
Best,
– Alex
Best Use:
Useful in quality control, shipping, or anything that requires a close visual check.
Additional Note:
This word is more serious—use it when you want to emphasize precision.
10. Assess
Want someone to give their opinion or make a judgment call? “Assess” works well for that.
Scenario Example:
Hey Jacob,
Could you assess the team’s progress and share any feedback before Friday?
Thanks in advance!
– Claire
Best Use:
Ideal when asking for thoughtful feedback or evaluations.
Additional Note:
It invites someone to think critically—not just glance over something.
11. Cross-Check
This one’s great when you’re comparing two things and need them to line up.
Scenario Example:
Hi Sasha,
Would you mind cross-checking the contract with our notes from the last meeting?
Appreciate it!
– Leo
Best Use:
Good for accuracy and comparing details between versions or sources.
Additional Note:
Sounds professional and shows you’re covering all your bases.
12. Read Through
A soft, friendly phrase that invites someone to take their time.
Scenario Example:
Hi Mateo,
Can you read through this proposal and let me know if it makes sense?
Thanks so much!
– Ava
Best Use:
Best when clarity and tone matter—like proposals, reports, or messages.
Additional Note:
It feels more caring and thoughtful—like you’re asking for real input.
13. Take a Moment to Look At
This one’s warm and patient. It doesn’t feel rushed or demanding.
Scenario Example:
Hey Zoe,
If you have a second, could you take a moment to look at the budget summary?
Thanks again,
– Tyler
Best Use:
When you want to keep it friendly, especially in team or collaborative settings.
Additional Note:
Adds a sense of kindness and respect for someone’s time.
14. Take a Glance At
This is the lighter, breezier cousin of “read through.” Good when something needs just a quick look.
Scenario Example:
Hi Jasmine,
Could you take a glance at this flyer before we print it?
Just want to catch any little things.
– Tom
Best Use:
When it’s not too serious but still helpful to get a second pair of eyes.
Additional Note:
It’s a casual way to say, “This won’t take long.”
15. Revisit
If someone has seen it before but you want them to look again—this is your word.
Scenario Example:
Hi Drew,
Would you mind revisiting the last section of your draft? I think we can make it even stronger.
Appreciate your time!
– Mia
Best Use:
Best when asking for a second look or a fresh perspective.
Additional Note:
It’s gentle, but encourages improvement or deeper thinking.
16. Examine
When you want someone to look closely and carefully, “examine” is your thoughtful, more focused pick.
Scenario Example:
Hi Jordan,
Could you examine the new layout for any spacing issues before we publish?
Thanks so much for your sharp eye!
– Rachel
Best Use:
When attention to detail is really important—like in design, legal, or technical work.
Additional Note:
It sounds careful, intelligent, and deliberate—like you’re asking someone for real focus.
17. Audit
“Audit” is a very formal word, but it works when you’re reviewing for compliance, accuracy, or financial correctness.
Scenario Example:
Hey Samira,
Would you be able to audit the Q1 expenses before our finance review?
Thanks for your help as always,
– Jonah
Best Use:
Ideal for finance, reports, security checks, or anything that needs a thorough review.
Additional Note:
This word shows seriousness—use it when accuracy is non-negotiable.
18. Proofread
This is your go-to when it comes to checking writing for grammar, spelling, and clarity.
Scenario Example:
Hi Ezra,
Could you proofread this newsletter for any typos or awkward sentences?
Would love your input!
– Bella
Best Use:
Perfect for emails, newsletters, essays, or anything that needs to sound polished.
Additional Note:
It’s specific and shows that you’re focused on clear communication.
19. Evaluate
This word goes a little deeper—it means you want someone to judge something, not just look at it.
Scenario Example:
Hey Lila,
Would you mind evaluating the vendor options and letting me know which feels strongest?
Really value your input,
– Marcus
Best Use:
When you’re seeking honest opinions or thoughtful decision-making.
Additional Note:
Great for choices, comparisons, or anything where you need feedback—not just a quick glance.
20. Look Into
“Look into” sounds curious, open, and exploratory. It’s ideal when there might be a problem to figure out.
Scenario Example:
Hi Adrian,
Could you look into the login issue a few users mentioned this morning?
Let me know what you find.
– Harper
Best Use:
Best for problem-solving or asking someone to investigate.
Additional Note:
It’s not just about seeing—it’s about understanding and reporting back.
Conclusion
So next time you’re about to say “Can you check this?”, take a breath and ask yourself: How do I want this to feel?
Do you want it to sound warm? Detailed? Casual? Serious?
Because just swapping in one of these thoughtful alternatives can make your message feel more personal, respectful, and human.
You don’t need to sound robotic. You just need the right words.
