Phrasal verb
lock in
Definition
phrasal verb. to fix a price or an agreement so it stays the same. You use this to make sure a good deal does not change later.
phrasal verb. To commit to a fixed rate, price, or set of conditions to prevent future changes or volatility. The verb is transitive and allows for optional separation of the particle.
Examples
“I want to lock in a low interest rate for my mortgage.”
“Many homeowners lock in their mortgage rates for five years to ensure their monthly payments stay predictable.”
“The treasurer advised the board to lock in the current exchange rates to mitigate the risks associated with the upcoming national election and potential currency devaluation.”
Examples
simple
“I want to lock in a low interest rate for my mortgage.”
contextual
“Many homeowners lock in their mortgage rates for five years to ensure their monthly payments stay predictable.”
complex
“The treasurer advised the board to lock in the current exchange rates to mitigate the risks associated with the upcoming national election and potential currency devaluation.”
Usage
It is most commonly used in the context of mortgages, energy bills, and investment strategies.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'float', which is used when a rate is allowed to change according to the market.
Pitfall
We locked in the house at 10 PM.
We locked up the house at 10 PM.
Learners often confuse 'lock in' (securing a rate) with 'lock up' (securing a building with a key).
Phrasal verb
Particles
in
Separability
optional
Pattern
lock + in + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/lock-in