punch in
B1 neutral separable both
In simple words
To record when you start work, or to type something in.
Literal meaning: Transparent — to punch (press) a card into a time-recording machine, or to strike keys to enter information.
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
To record the time you start work, originally by inserting a time card into a machine.
"All staff must punch in before 9 a.m. or it will be recorded as a late arrival."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
To enter data or a code by pressing buttons or keys.
"Just punch in your PIN and the gate will open automatically."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
'Punch in' for starting work is primarily American English; British English prefers 'clock in'. The data-entry sense is widely used in both varieties. Derived from the physical action of punching a time card into a machine.
Commonly used with
time card code number data address PIN hours
Forms
Base
punch in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
punches in
he/she/it
Past simple
punched in
yesterday
Past participle
punched in
have + pp
-ing form
punching in
continuous
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