clue in
B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words
To tell someone something important so they understand what is happening.
Literal meaning: To give someone a clue ('clue') that brings them in ('in') to understanding.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To inform someone about something they did not know, bringing them up to date.
"Nobody told me about the change in plan — can someone clue me in?"
Grammar: separable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To reveal a secret or hidden detail to someone so they can understand the full picture.
"She finally clued him in on the surprise party they had been planning for weeks."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Common in American informal English. Often used in the construction 'clue someone in on something.' Implies the person being informed was previously unaware or left out. Slightly less common in British English.
Commonly used with
plan secret situation details news what's happening
Forms
Base
clue in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
clues in
he/she/it
Past simple
clued in
yesterday
Past participle
clued in
have + pp
-ing form
cluing in
continuous
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