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plug in

A2 neutral separable both
In simple words

To put a plug into a socket so something gets electricity or connects to another device

Literal meaning: To insert a plug into a socket

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To connect an electrical appliance to a power supply by inserting its plug into a socket

"Could you plug the kettle in? I'll make us some tea."

Grammar: separable
2 A2 neutral

To connect one electronic device to another using a cable

"Plug your camera in and the computer should recognize it automatically."

Grammar: separable
3 B2 idiomatic informal

To connect to or become part of a system, network, or community (figurative)

"New employees are encouraged to plug in to the company's mentoring network from day one."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

One of the most common and practical phrasal verbs in everyday English. Can be used with a direct object ('plug the lamp in') or intransitively ('it just plugs in here'). Also used figuratively to mean connecting to or becoming part of a system or network.

Commonly used with

laptop charger phone kettle television headphones cable

Forms

Base
plug in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
plugs in
he/she/it
Past simple
pluged in
yesterday
Past participle
pluged in
have + pp
-ing form
pluging in
continuous

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