broken-check: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Business
Quick answer
What does “broken-check” mean?
A check (cheque) that cannot be cashed or honored by the bank, typically due to insufficient funds in the issuer's account.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A check (cheque) that cannot be cashed or honored by the bank, typically due to insufficient funds in the issuer's account.
A promise of payment that fails, leading to consequences for both the recipient and issuer. It can metaphorically represent any failed promise or assurance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, the primary term is 'bounced cheque' (spelling: cheque). 'Broken cheque/check' is understood but less idiomatic.
Connotations
In the US, 'broken check' has a slightly more informal, almost folksy connotation compared to the standard 'bounced check.' In the UK, it is non-standard and might be interpreted literally as a physically torn cheque.
Frequency
The phrase is rare in both dialects, with 'bounced check/cheque' or 'NSF check' (Non-Sufficient Funds) being vastly more common.
Grammar
How to Use “broken-check” in a Sentence
[Someone] wrote/gave me a broken-check.The broken-check [caused/bounced/resulted in] fees.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “broken-check” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He practically broken-chequed me with that post-dated promise.
- I hope I don't get broken-chequed again.
American English
- The client broken-checked us last month, so we require a deposit now.
- I feel like I've been broken-checked.
adjective
British English
- It was a broken-cheque situation that ruined their partnership.
- We have a broken-cheque policy with strict penalties.
American English
- The broken-check scam is common in online marketplaces.
- She gave me a broken-check apology—all words, no action.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Informally used among small businesses to describe a failed payment, though 'NSF' is the formal accounting term.
Academic
Rare; used in economics or sociology when discussing informal economies or financial trust.
Everyday
Used in personal finance contexts when complaining about unreliable payments.
Technical
Not a standard technical term in banking; replaced by precise terms like 'returned item due to insufficient funds.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “broken-check”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “broken-check”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “broken-check”
- Using it to mean a 'canceled check' (a processed check). Confusing it with a 'blank check.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an informal expression. Formal terms are 'bounced check,' 'NSF check,' or 'dishonored cheque.'
Yes, it can metaphorically describe any promise that is not fulfilled, especially one involving a future benefit.
The UK primarily uses 'bounced cheque.' 'Broken-check' is rare and may be misunderstood. The US uses 'bounced check' formally but may use 'broken check' informally.
Use 'a check that was returned for insufficient funds' or 'an NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds) instrument.'
A check (cheque) that cannot be cashed or honored by the bank, typically due to insufficient funds in the issuer's account.
Broken-check: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbrəʊkən ˈtʃek/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbroʊkən ˈtʃɛk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[His promise was] a broken check.”
- “Don't take a broken-check to the bank.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'check' as a bridge for money. A BROKEN-check is a bridge that has collapsed, so the money cannot cross.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PROMISE IS A FINANCIAL INSTRUMENT / FAILURE IS PHYSICAL BREAKAGE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most standard and common synonym for 'broken-check' in formal US banking?