What are the definitions of “put in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Install.
They had to PUT IN a whole new central heating system because the house was so cold.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “put in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb put in is to install something or place something inside a container or space. For example, it can mean installing a new appliance, adding an ingredient to a recipe, or placing an object in a specific location.
What are the different verb forms of “put in”?
| Root Verb | put in |
| Third Person Singular Present | puts in |
| Present Participle | putting in |
| Simple Past | put in |
| Past Participle | put in |
Example
I need to put in a new light bulb in the living room.
Example
She puts in a lot of effort to make her garden beautiful.
Example
He is putting in a new air conditioner in the bedroom.
Example
Yesterday, they put in a new dishwasher in the kitchen.
Example
The new windows have been put in to improve energy efficiency.
What kind of phrasal verb is “put in”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“put in” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She put in a request for a vacation day.
Example
He put the keys in his pocket.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“put in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She put in a request for a vacation day.
Example
He put the keys in his pocket.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “put in”?
Put in an appearance
To briefly attend an event or gathering, often out of obligation.
Example
I don't want to stay long, but I'll put in an appearance at the party.
Good things to know
Does “put in” have an informal or formal tone?
Put in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in business or academic discussions, depending on the specific context.
