Phrasal verb
read in
Definition
phrasal verb. to bring information from a file or source into a computer program. You use this when a computer needs to process data stored somewhere else.
phrasal verb. to transfer data from an external source into a computer's memory. The verb is transitive and can be used with or without an object between the verb and particle.
Examples
“The application must read in the user data first.”
“After the system reads in the configuration file, it applies the new security settings automatically.”
“Modern data processing pipelines are optimized to read in millions of records per second from distributed cloud storage systems.”
Examples
simple
“The application must read in the user data first.”
contextual
“After the system reads in the configuration file, it applies the new security settings automatically.”
complex
“Modern data processing pipelines are optimized to read in millions of records per second from distributed cloud storage systems.”
Usage
Commonly used in programming, data science, and technical documentation.
Teaching tip
Contrast this with 'read into', which involves interpreting hidden meanings in a text or situation.
Pitfall
The program reads in to the data.
The program reads in the data.
The particle 'in' should not be followed by 'to' when describing data input.
Phrasal verb
Particles
in
Separability
optional
Pattern
read + 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/read-in