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3. in check

in check

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in check

within reasonable limits I've been spending all my salary and have got to find a way to keep my expenses in check.

Usage notes: often used in the form hold something in check: Sometimes it's hard to hold your emotions in check.

See also: check

in check

Restrained from moving or acting; under control. For example, The first division held the enemy in check, or Mary kept her emotions in check. This term replaced at check and out of check, which date from the mid-1500s.

See also: check