What are the definitions of “be in on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be involved in.
Susan was the only one who WASN'T IN ON the plan.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be in on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be in on is to be involved in or be a part of something, such as a plan, secret, or activity. It is often used to describe someone's participation in a group or shared activity.
What are the different verb forms of “be in on”?
| Root Verb | be in on |
| Third Person Singular Present | is in on |
| Present Participle | being in on |
| Simple Past | was in on |
| Past Participle | been in on |
Example
I want to be in on the surprise party planning.
Example
He is in on the secret, so don't tell him anything.
Example
She is being in on the decision-making process.
Example
They were in on the prank from the beginning.
Example
She had been in on the plan since last week.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be in on”?
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 on” 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
He is in on the secret.
Example
They were in on the plan.
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 on” 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
He is in on the secret.
Example
They were in on the plan.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be in on”?
Be in on the ground floor
To be involved in something from the beginning, especially a new project or business.
Example
He was in on the ground floor of the startup, so he has a lot of experience.
Be in on the joke
To understand and be a part of a humorous situation or prank.
Example
Everyone was in on the joke, so no one felt left out.
Be in on the secret
To know and be a part of a secret or confidential information.
Example
Only a few people were in on the secret, so it didn't spread too far.
Good things to know
Does “be in on” have an informal or formal tone?
Be in on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, but it can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “be in on”?
Synonyms
- engaged
- collaborate
- contribute
- participate
- involved
- included
- share
