Quick Definition
Fill In — To complete a form with information; to substitute for someone; to inform someone of details.
Meanings of Fill In
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Complete a form | Please fill in the application form in block capitals. | Complete all the blank spaces. |
| Substitute | Could you fill in for me on Thursday? | Could you do my job for me temporarily? |
| Inform | Fill me in on what I missed. | Tell me what happened while I was away. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| Please fill in the application form in block capitals. | Complete all the blank spaces. |
| Could you fill in for me on Thursday? | Could you do my job for me temporarily? |
| Fill me in on what I missed. | Tell me what happened while I was away. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll fill in it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable | Transitivity: transitive
Separable: fill the form in or fill in the form. With pronoun: fill it in.
How to Use Fill In
Neutral. Common in administrative and workplace contexts.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | Please fill in the application form in block capitals. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Fill In
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Fill In
What does "Fill In" mean?
"Fill In" means: To complete a form with information; to substitute for someone; to inform someone of details. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Fill In" separable or inseparable?
"Fill In" is separable. Separable: fill the form in or fill in the form. With pronoun: fill it in.
How do I use "Fill In" in a sentence?
Please fill in the application form in block capitals. -- in this example, 'Fill In' means complete all the blank spaces.
What is the register of "Fill In"?
Neutral. Common in administrative and workplace contexts.
What CEFR level is "Fill In"?
"Fill In" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Fill In" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Fill In" specifically means: To complete a form with information; to substitute for someone; to inform someone of details. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Fill In" be used formally?
Neutral. Common in administrative and workplace contexts. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Fill In" take an object?
"Fill In" is transitive. Separable: fill the form in or fill in the form. With pronoun: fill it in.
How can I practise "Fill In"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Fill In' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Fill In" used in British or American English?
"Fill In" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. Common in administrative and workplace contexts.