23 Prepositional Phrases with IN

23 Prepositional Phrases with IN

Prepositional phrases are one of those quiet foundations of natural English. Native speakers use them constantly — in conversation, writing, emails, and exams — often without thinking twice. For learners, however, it can be tricky because their meaning is not always obvious from the individual words. In this lesson, we’ll explore 23 common prepositional phrases with “in” that you’ll meet again and again in real English. Each phrase is explained clearly and supported with an example sentence, so you can see how it works in context and start using it with confidence. These expressions are especially useful for everyday communication, formal writing, and Cambridge exam tasks, where accuracy and natural phrasing really matter.

Take your time, read the examples carefully, and try to notice how these phrases bring clarity, emphasis, and fluency to English. Little phrases — big difference.

In a hurry

Meaning: very quickly.

• Mark was in a hurry because he was late.

In addition

Meaning: use it to add another thing or person to something already mentioned.

• In addition to this house, he has a flat on the sea coast.

In advance

Meaning: to do something in preparation for something we expect to happen.

• You should book in advance if you want to travel to the Maldives in July.

In brief

Meaning: in a few words, without many details.

• We are listening to the news in brief.

In case

Meaning: in order to be prepared for something.

• You should write it down in case you forget.

In charge (of)

Meaning: to be in control or responsible for something.

• I want to complain. Who is in charge here?

 

In common

Meaning: to share something, such as characteristics or interests, with someone or something

• Humans and apes have a lot in common.

In control

Meaning: to be in a position of power and decide on what is going to happen.

• The UN forces are in control of the region.

In detail

Meaning: which includes much information about something.

• Could you please tell me more about this problem in detail?

In doubt

Meaning: to be uncertain.

• If you are in doubt, ask for a second doctor’s opinion.

In fact

Meaning: Use the phrase for emphasis or to provide additional details.

• Mary works in school. In fact, she is a teacher.

In fashion

Meaning: in a particular way.

• All houses on this street are built in the same fashion.

In general

Meaning: usually.

• In general, women live longer than men.

In love

Meaning: to have romantic feelings for another person.

• Michael is in love with Monica.

In moderation

Meaning: not too much, within reasonable limits.

• The doctor told me that I can drink wine but in moderation.

In no time

Meaning: very soon.

• We’ll be home in no time.

In other words

Meaning: to say it differently.

• In other words, they’ll put filters on the factory chimneys to prevent pollution.

In particular

Meaning: which applies to one person or thing.

• I have nothing in particular to say about this matter.

In return

Meaning: as a response to something.

• Can I buy you a drink in return for your help?

In season

Meaning: refers to the time of the year when fruit and vegetables are ready to be eaten.

• Cherries are in season now so I could make a cherry pie.

In the habit

Meaning: something you do regularly.

• I’m in the habit of having breakfast as soon as I get up.

In touch

Meaning: in contact.

• We’ll keep in touch while we’re away.

In vain

Meaning: without any results.

• Fiona tried in vain to talk to her son.

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