blank check

noun

1. a bank check bearing a signature but no stated amount.
2. unrestricted authority; a free hand:

   He was given a blank check in the choice of personnel for the new department.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blank check¹

First recorded in 1790–95, and in 1885–90 blank check fordef 2

Idioms and Phrases

Unrestricted authority, a free hand, as in I'll support most of the chairman's agenda, but I'm not ready to give him a blank check for the company's future . Literally this term signifies a bank check that is signed by the drawer but does not indicate the amount of money, which is filled in by the person to whom it is given. [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

Now the court’s opinion gives him a blank check for a second term.

From Los Angeles Times

With certain GOP backing, Trump will reclaim a presidency recently empowered by the Supreme Court's decision to grant him immunity for official acts, in effect giving him a blank check to justify any illegal conduct under the guise of carrying out his duties.

From Salon

It was basically a blank check to fortify the roster.

From Los Angeles Times

It was basically a blank check to fortify the roster.

From Los Angeles Times

But it must be clearly stated that electing Donald Trump would usher in a new era of racism and Islamaphobia in the U.S. while giving Benjamin Netanyahu a blank check to continue the war.

From Salon

Related Words

• free rein