What are the definitions of “be in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be at home or at work.
They ARE never IN; I always get their answerphone.
- 2Be submitted, arrive.
The application form must BE IN by 3pm on Friday.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be in is to be at home or at work. It is often used to describe someone's presence or availability at a specific location, such as their house or workplace.
What are the different verb forms of “be in”?
| Root Verb | be in |
| Third Person Singular Present | is in |
| Present Participle | being in |
| Simple Past | was in |
| Past Participle | been in |
Example
I will be in all day if you want to visit.
Example
She is in her office right now.
Example
He is being in the house more often since he started working from home.
Example
Yesterday, she was in the whole day.
Example
He has been in the office since early morning.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be 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.)
Intransitive verb
“be in” 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
I will be in all day if you want to visit.
Example
She is in her office right now.
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
“be 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
I will be in all day if you want to visit.
Example
She is in her office right now.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be in”?
Be in for something
To be likely to experience something, usually something unpleasant or difficult.
Example
If you don't study for the exam, you'll be in for a tough time.
Be in on something
To be aware of or involved in a plan or secret.
Example
She was in on the surprise party planning.
Be in with
To have a good relationship or be friends with someone, often for personal gain.
Example
He is in with the boss, so he gets special treatment.
Good things to know
Does “be in” have an informal or formal tone?
Be 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, depending on the specific context.
