ask for the check

Meaning

This phrase means to request the written bill showing how much you need to pay at the end of a meal in a restaurant. In American English, 'check' is standard, while British English speakers typically say 'bill.' It is a polite, standard way to signal to your server that you are ready to pay and leave.

Examples

• Once you finish your dessert, you can ask for the check.

  Once you finish your dessert, you can ask for the check.

• Excuse me, could we ask for the check when you have a moment?

  Excuse me, could we ask for the check when you have a moment?

• He waved politely to the waiter to ask for the check.

  He waved politely to the waiter to ask for the check.

• In some countries, it is considered rude to ask for the check too quickly.

  In some countries, it is considered rude to ask for the check too quickly.

• I had to ask for the check twice because the restaurant was so busy.

  I had to ask for the check twice because the restaurant was so busy.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ Excuse me, can I ask the check?

  ✓ Excuse me, can I ask for the check?

  You must use the preposition 'for' after 'ask' when requesting an object or service.

• ✗ We are ready to pay, please demand the check.

  ✓ We are ready to pay, please ask for the check.

  'Demand' is too aggressive and rude in a restaurant setting; 'ask for' is polite and standard.

Related Expressions

Practice

• We have a train to catch, so let's ___ right away.

  💡 Request the bill at the end of a meal.

  Show answer

  ask for the check

• To get the waiter's attention, you can catch their eye and politely ___.

  💡 Request the total amount to pay.

  Show answer

  ask for the check