Phrasal verbs with "in" often involve the idea of entering, inclusion, involvement, or focusing inward. The particle "in" adds the meaning of going inside, being engaged, or bringing something within.
Common meanings of "in" in phrasal verbs
- Entering or coming inside (e.g. go in, break in)
- Joining or participating (e.g. chip in, join in)
- Submission or input (e.g. hand in, send in)
- Inward focus or attention (e.g. tune in, lock in)
Tips to remember
- Think of "in" as moving from outside to inside — physically, emotionally, or mentally.
- Many “in” phrasal verbs are about becoming part of something or starting involvement.
Example
I decided to join in the discussion and then hand in my report.
