The Grammar of 'Check It Out' vs. 'Check Out It'

Overview

In this article, we will explore the grammatical correctness of the phrases 'check it out' and 'check out it' in different contexts. We will delve into the nuances of these phrases, their usage, and the reasons behind certain constructions being more natural than others.

Introduction

Both phrases are commonly used in English, but their grammatical correctness and naturalness can vary depending on the context and the object following the phrase. In this discussion, we will examine the grammatical rules and linguistic considerations that underpin the correct usage of these phrases.

Are Both Sentence Variations Grammatically Correct?

Both variations are grammatically correct in most contexts, and there is no significant change in meaning between them. This is a common pattern in English where different structures can be used interchangeably.

For example:

Correct Variation 1: Check it out. Correct Variation 2: Check out it.

Verb Phrases and Object Placement

When it comes to the verb phrase 'check out', the exact placement of the object can depend on the context and the clarity of the sentence. In the phrase 'check it out', the object 'it' directly follows the verb, making the sentence more concise and straightforward. This version is often more natural and easier to understand.

Example Usage

Consider the following sentence:

Example 1: Check this movie clip and these two videos and this instruction manual out.

In this sentence, 'check out' follows the object 'this instruction manual', and the placement is clear and logical.

Are There Any Exceptions?

There are certain exceptions where one variation might be more appropriate or grammatically correct than the other. For instance, when using a pronoun, 'it' follows the verb more naturally: Correct Usage: Check it out. Incorrect Usage: Check out it.

Expert Opinions

Joel, an English language expert, notes that while the second variation might be technically correct, it is less common and less natural in spoken and written English. He suggests that when teaching, he would advise against separating the verb phrase 'check out'. Here's his perspective:

I’m not sure I could quote a rule that says the second is wrong. But when I was teaching I would have told the writer not to separate a verb phrase. 'Check out' is the verb phrase.

Adverbial Particles and Sentence Structure

Adverbial particles like 'out' can be highly flexible in sentence structure. They can move around within a sentence, often depending on the length and nature of the preceding object. In the phrase 'check out', the particle 'out' can be placed before or after the object, with the former often sounding more natural: Natural Usage: Check out these. Natural Usage: Check these out.

Conclusion

In summary, both 'check it out' and 'check out it' are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. However, the naturalness and clarity of the sentence might vary depending on the object's length and the sentence's overall structure. Understanding these nuances can help writers and speakers choose the most appropriate phrasing for their specific context.

Related Keywords

grammar rules verb phrases adverbial particles