random security check
/ˈrændəm sɪˈkjʊərəti tʃek/
Meaning
This phrase refers to an unscheduled, unbiased inspection of a passenger or their luggage at an airport or border. It is conducted by security personnel to ensure safety, rather than because the traveler is suspected of any wrongdoing. The tone is neutral and official.
Examples
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I was running late for my flight, and of course, I got pulled aside for a random security check.
I was running late for my flight, and of course, I got pulled aside for a random security check.
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Please step over here, sir; your bag has been selected for a random security check.
Please step over here, sir; your bag has been selected for a random security check.
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Don't worry, a random security check is standard procedure and only takes a couple of minutes.
Don't worry, a random security check is standard procedure and only takes a couple of minutes.
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She had to take off her shoes and open her laptop during the random security check.
She had to take off her shoes and open her laptop during the random security check.
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Getting flagged for a random security check is annoying, but it helps keep everyone safe.
Getting flagged for a random security check is annoying, but it helps keep everyone safe.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I had to pass a random security control.
✓ I had to go through a random security check.
In English, we 'go through' or 'undergo' a 'security check' rather than 'pass a security control', which is a literal translation from other languages.
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✗ The officer did a casual security check on me.
✓ The officer did a random security check on me.
While 'casual' means relaxed, the correct official term for an unbiased, unscheduled inspection is 'random'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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I always seem to get picked for a ___ at the airport.
💡 An unbiased, unscheduled inspection of a passenger.
Show answer
random security check
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Please step aside for a quick ___ of your carry-on luggage.
💡 A standard safety procedure.
Show answer
random security check