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REFERENCE

in

prep. · adv. · adj. · n.
  1. 1 location or position (prep.)
    A1 Beginner

    inside a container, a place, or an area.

    indicating inclusion or position within spatial limits or a defined area.

    Example

    My keys are in my pocket, so I don't need to look for them.

    Example

    The documents were stored securely in the vault, protected from both environmental damage and unauthorised access.
    Pitfall
    I am in the bus.
    I am on the bus.

    Use 'on' for public transport like buses, trains, and planes, but 'in' for cars and small boats.

  2. 2 time periods (prep.)
    A1 Beginner

    during a period of time like a month, a year, or a season.

    indicating a point within a temporal limit or duration.

    Example

    We usually go to the beach in the summer when the weather is hot.

    Example

    The company was founded in 1998, just before the digital revolution transformed the industry entirely.
    Pitfall
    I will see you in Monday.
    I will see you on Monday.

    Use 'on' for specific days and dates, but 'in' for months, years, and seasons.

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  1. 3 state or condition (prep.)
    A2 Elementary

    used to describe the situation or feeling someone is experiencing.

    denoting a state, condition, or circumstances of the subject.

    Example

    She is in a lot of pain after falling off her bike.

    Example

    The two nations have been in conflict for decades, despite numerous attempts at diplomatic intervention.
  2. 4 medium or language (prep.)
    A2 Elementary

    using a specific language, material, or way of expressing something.

    indicating the medium, format, or language used for communication or creation.

    Example

    Please write your answers in English so the teacher can read them.

    Example

    The contract was drafted in triplicate, ensuring that each party held an original copy for their records.
  3. 5 towards the inside (adv.)
    A1 Beginner

    to or towards the inside of a building or room.

    at or towards the interior of a defined space.

    Example

    It started to rain, so we all ran in to stay dry.

    Example

    The detective peered through the window but couldn't see anything happening in.
  4. 6 fashionable (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    popular or fashionable at the moment.

    currently fashionable, popular, or trendy.

    Example

    Short hair is very in this season, according to the magazines.

    Example

    The designer noted that while neon colours were in last year, the market has shifted toward more muted, earthy tones.
  5. 7 present at work (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    present at your office or home.

    located at one's place of work or residence; available.

    Example

    Is the manager in today, or is she working from home?

    Example

    The receptionist confirmed that the doctor would be in by ten o'clock to resume consultations.
  6. 8 influence or connection (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal

    a way to get into a group or a position of power through someone you know.

    a position of influence or a means of gaining entry or favour.

    Example

    He has an in with the director, so he might get the job.

    Example

    Securing an in with the local council proved vital for the developers to move the project forward ahead of schedule.
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