put in
phrasal verb·2 senses·particle in
Meanings
Install something
Why “in”? A part or device is fitted or connected into place. It joins the setup and is ready to work.
“We put in a new kitchen last year.”
“The city put in new lights along the path.”
“The landlord finally put in a dishwasher.”
Invest time or effort
Why “in”? A person, idea, effort, or item becomes part of a group, activity, or plan.
“She put in twelve hours of work.”
“He put in real effort before the exam.”
“They put in months of training for the marathon.”
Don't confuse with
Put in means install something. Put out means extinguish a fire or light.
Test yourself
“We put in a new kitchen last year.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
put out
A contrast learners often mix up
Extinguish a fire or light; Publish or broadcast; Inconvenience someone
blend in
Same in pattern: inclusion
Look or behave like the people around you
break in
Same in pattern: inclusion
Enter a building illegally by force; Interrupt a conversation and begin speaking
bring in
Same in pattern: inclusion
Introduce someone or something into a discussion or organisation; Earn money for a person or business; Introduce a new law, system or rule; Deliver a verdict in a court
build in
Same in pattern: installation
Include something as a permanent part of a design
chime in
Same in pattern: inclusion
Add a comment to a conversation
chip in
Same in pattern: inclusion
Contribute money or effort to a shared cause
come in
Same in pattern: inclusion
Enter a room or building; Arrive at a destination; Become available, fashionable or in season; Have a useful function or role; (of money or income) be received; Finish a race in a particular position
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