What are the definitions of “turn in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Go to bed.
I TURNED IN at half past eleven because I had an early start the next morning.
- 2Hand in, submit.
She TURNED IN her paper.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “turn in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb turn in is to submit or hand in something, such as an assignment, report, or application. It is often used in academic or professional settings.
What are the different verb forms of “turn in”?
| Root Verb | turn in |
| Third Person Singular Present | turns in |
| Present Participle | turning in |
| Simple Past | turned in |
| Past Participle | turned in |
Example
Please turn in your assignments by Friday.
Example
He turns in his reports on time every month.
Example
She is turning in her application for the scholarship.
Example
Yesterday, they turned in their group project.
Example
The completed forms have been turned in to the office.
What kind of phrasal verb is “turn 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
“turn 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 turned in her paper.
Example
He turned the report in to his boss.
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
“turn 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 turned in her paper.
Example
He turned the report in to his boss.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “turn in”?
Good things to know
Does “turn in” have an informal or formal tone?
Turn in is generally considered a neutral phrasal verb. It can be used in both informal and formal settings, depending on the context. For example, when discussing submitting assignments or reports, it is appropriate for both casual conversations and more formal academic or professional situations.
