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chip in

B1 informal inseparable both
In simple words

To give some money together with other people for something, or to suddenly say something in a conversation.

Literal meaning: A 'chip' is a small piece; to chip in is to contribute one's small piece to the whole.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

To contribute a share of money toward a common cost or gift.

"We all chipped in twenty dollars to buy our manager a leaving present."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To join in a conversation by adding a comment or remark.

""Don't forget we also need more chairs," she chipped in as they were planning the event."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic informal

To contribute effort or help to a shared task.

"If everyone chips in, we can have the room set up in half an hour."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

The monetary sense is most common: 'We all chipped in for a gift.' The conversational sense overlaps with 'chime in.' British and American English both use this freely. 'Chip in' with money often implies the contributions are small and pooled.

Commonly used with

money gift fund idea suggestion donation

Forms

Base
chip in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
chips in
he/she/it
Past simple
chiped in
yesterday
Past participle
chiped in
have + pp
-ing form
chiping in
continuous

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Synonyms

contribute pitch in donate kick in add interject

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