English Reference
preposition · adverb · adjective · noun

in

prep. · adv. · adj. · n.

infinitive in past inned past participle inned

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    prep.inside a container, a place, or an area.

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    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. 02 A1 Beginner

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

    prep.indicating a point within a temporal limit or duration.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary

    prep.used to describe the situation or feeling someone is experiencing.

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The two nations have been in conflict for decades, despite numerous attempts at diplomatic intervention.

  4. 04 A2 Elementary

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The contract was drafted in triplicate, ensuring that each party held an original copy for their records.

  5. 05 A1 Beginner

    adv.to or towards the inside of a building or room.

    adv.at or towards the interior of a defined space.

    Simple

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

    In context

    The detective peered through the window but couldn't see anything happening in.

    out
  6. 06 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    adj.popular or fashionable at the moment.

    adj.currently fashionable, popular, or trendy.

    Simple

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

    In context

    The designer noted that while neon colours were in last year, the market has shifted toward more muted, earthy tones.

    outunfashionable
  7. 07 A2 Elementary

    adj.present at your office or home.

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The receptionist confirmed that the doctor would be in by ten o'clock to resume consultations.

  8. 08 C1 Advanced Informal

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

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

Usage cite in · decline in · embed in

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated