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Glite Dictionary
to check for leaks

to check for leaks

3 2.6
To look for places where water or gas is coming out
  • phrasal verb
translation icon : verificar fugas
  • In the attic, check for leaks, proper ventilation, and insulation, which also play a role in the roof's lifespan.
  • check for water leaks

Examples

  • Some of the things to include on your list are checking for fluid leaks, worn tires, etc.

    Blog text (10)

  • If necessary, add more coolant and then recheck the coolant level after about an hour to check for leaks.

    Blog text (32)

  • If it is, add fluid and have the system checked for leaks.

    Blog text (22)

  • Checked for boost leaks, did not find any.

    Blog text (10)

  • I'm just uh...checking for leaks.

    Blood Stains (2018)

  • Check your waders for leaks.

    Blog text (11)

  • The weirdest thing was that there was water all over the bed and on the floor, but our guy checked for leaks in the ceiling and the bathroom pipes.

  • Please check for leaks in the gas pipes before turning on the stove.

  • It's important to check for leaks in the water tank every few months.

  • The technician will check for leaks in the HVAC system to ensure it runs efficiently.

Synonyms

to check
vsto check for leaks
∞ 1.0

Examine something to make sure it is correct or true

targets finding escaping liquid or gas rather than general verification
to inspect
vsto check for leaks
202 2.5

To look at something carefully to check if it works or is safe

is aimed specifically at finding escaping liquid or gas
to check up on
vsto check for leaks
93 3.2

To look at something to make sure it is correct and works well

is used specifically to find escaping liquid or gas

Antonyms

to overlook
243 2.9

To not notice someone or something you should see

Surface Forms

check for leaks infinitive
checked for leaks past
checked for leaks past participle
checking for leaks present participle
checks for leaks third person singular

Morphology

check + for + leak

The meaning 'to examine something to see if there is any leakage' is directly and compositionally derived from 'check' (inspect) + 'for' (looking for/purpose) + 'leaks' (escape of liquid or gas). This verb + preposition + noun pattern is transparent and common cross-linguistically, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents would readily infer the MWE's meaning.

Etymology

Check for leaks comes from the image of someone looking to check pipes or a roof to see if there are leaks. People often watch for drops, a hissing sound, or bubbles in soapy water to find them, so check for leaks means 'to look closely to find any leaking'.