Word: In

Pronunciation

/ɪn/

Definitions

• Preposition: Expressing the situation of something that is or appears to be enclosed or surrounded by something else. For example: “The key is in the lock.”
• Adverb: Expressing a location or position within a place, container, or area. For example: “She sat in the corner.”
• Verb: Enter or go into (a place). For example: “They came in through the front door.”
• Idiomatically: As part of various expressions, such as “in time” (within a particular period), “in charge” (having control or responsibility), “in favor of” (supportive of), etc.

Phrases

• “In addition to” means besides or also.
• “In case of” expresses a condition under which something might happen.
• “In order to” indicates the purpose of an action.
• “In and out” refers to moving quickly from one place to another.
• “In theory” suggests that something might work well or be true but has not been proven in practice.

Example Sentences

• Preposition: “The book is lying on the table, with its pages turned in towards the spine.”
• Adverb: “She placed the flowers carefully in the vase.”
• Verb: “I’ll meet you in the café after work.”
• Idiomatic usage: “It’s best to arrive in time for the start of the meeting.”

Synonyms

• Within (prep.)
• Inside (adv., prep.)
• Into (prep., adv.)
• Within the bounds of (idiom)
• Entering (verb)

Note: The usage of “in” can vary greatly depending on context; it is one of the most versatile words in the English language, functioning as a preposition, adverb, verb, and even a particle in certain idiomatic expressions.