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look in

B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To make a quick visit to someone, often to see how they are doing.

Literal meaning: To look inside (in) a place — implying a brief glance or short entry.

Meanings

1 B1 informal

To make a brief, informal visit to a person or place, especially to check how things are.

"I'll look in on my way home from work to see if you need anything."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

(British, informal) In the phrase 'not get a look in' or 'have a look in': to have a chance to participate, win, or succeed.

"With the reigning champion in the competition, the younger players didn't get a look in."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Primarily British English. Commonly used for brief, casual visits — often to check on someone's wellbeing or to see if something is available. Also used in the phrase 'have a look in', meaning a chance or opportunity to succeed or compete.

Commonly used with

neighbour friend shop office hospital later

Forms

Base
look in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
looks in
he/she/it
Past simple
looked in
yesterday
Past participle
looked in
have + pp
-ing form
looking in
continuous

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