The term 'CHECKS OFF' can be broken down into four separate words: LIST (4 letters), APE (3 letters), OKS (3 letters), and XES (3 letters). The word 'LIST' is a verb meaning to make a LIST of items or tasks. The word 'APE' is a verb meaning to imitate or copy someone or something. The word 'OKS' is a verb meaning to approve or accept something. Finally, the word 'XES' is a verb meaning to cross out or delete something. Together, these words can be interpreted as a phrase meaning to make a LIST of items or tasks, imitate or copy it, approve or accept it, and then cross out or delete it. In other words, 'CHECKS OFF' is a phrase used to describe the process of completing a task or job.