Phrasal verbs "fill in for" vs "fill out"

Differences between fill in for and fill out

Fill in for means to substitute for someone or something, usually temporarily, while fill out means to complete a form or document with necessary information.

Meanings and Definitions: fill in for vs fill out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fill in for

• 1. Substitute.

  I was away for a few days, so they had to get someone to FILL IN FOR me.

Fill out

• 1. Complete a form.

  I FILLED OUT the application form and mailed it.

Usage Examples: fill in for, fill out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fill in for

Example

Can you fill in for me at the meeting tomorrow?

Example

She fills in for her coworker when he is on vacation.

fill out

Example

Please fill out this form before your appointment.

Example

She fills out the survey carefully.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fill in for

substitute for

To take the place of someone or something temporarily.

Example

I need someone to substitute for me at work next week while I'm on vacation.

stand in for

To act as a replacement for someone or something.

Example

The understudy had to stand in for the lead actor who got sick before the show.

cover for

To take over someone's duties or responsibilities while they are absent.

Example

Can you cover for me at the front desk while I go to lunch?

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fill out

complete

To finish or finalize a task or activity.

Example

I need to complete this report before the deadline tomorrow.

fill in

To provide missing information or details in a form or document.

Example

Please fill in your name, address, and phone number on the application form.

answer

To respond to questions or provide information in a form or survey.

Example

Please answer all the questions in the survey to help us improve our services.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fill”

• fill in
• fill in on
• fill out
• fill up

Phrasal Verbs with “in for”

• go in for
• sit in for
• stand in for
• come in for
• have it in for

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

• fit out
• cancel out
• get out!
• put out
• sell out

Differences in fill in for vs fill out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fill in for or fill out?

In daily conversation, people use fill out more often than fill in for. This is because fill out is used for more routine tasks such as filling out forms, applications, or surveys. Fill in for is not used as much, and it's mainly used when someone needs to replace someone else for a short period of time. So, while both phrases are used, fill out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fill in for and fill out

Fill in for and fill out are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fill in for and fill out

The tone of fill in for and fill out can differ based on context. Fill in for often carries a helpful or supportive tone when related to substituting for someone, while fill out typically has a practical and straightforward tone, especially when referring to completing forms or documents.

fill in for & fill out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fill in for

Synonyms

• substitute
• replace
• stand in for
• cover for
• take the place of
• act as a substitute

Antonyms

• leave
• abandon
• vacate
• relinquish
• surrender
• give up

Fill out

Synonyms

• complete
• fill in
• finish
• provide information
• supply details

Antonyms

• ignore
• neglect
• skip
• omit
• leave blank