What are the definitions of “sit in for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Take on someone's responsibilities while they are absent.
Her deputy's SITTING IN FOR her while she's away.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sit in for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sit in for is to take on someone's responsibilities or duties while they are absent. This can be temporary, such as covering for a coworker who is on vacation or sick leave.
What are the different verb forms of “sit in for”?
| Root Verb | sit in for |
| Third Person Singular Present | sits in for |
| Present Participle | sitting in for |
| Simple Past | sat in for |
| Past Participle | sat in for |
Example
I will sit in for my colleague while she is on maternity leave.
Example
He sits in for the manager when she is out of the office.
Example
She is sitting in for her teammate during the conference.
Example
Last week, he sat in for the teacher who was sick.
Example
He has sat in for the absent employee several times.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sit in for”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“sit in for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She sat in for her coworker during the meeting.
Example
He sat in for the absent teacher.
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
“sit in for” 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 sat in for her coworker during the meeting.
Example
He sat in for the absent teacher.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sit in for”?
Good things to know
Does “sit in for” have an informal or formal tone?
Sit in for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as professional settings, such as discussing work responsibilities or academic duties.
