1 B1 neutral
To register your arrival at work by recording the time, typically using a card, machine, or app.
"All warehouse staff must clock in before entering the loading area."
inseparable
clock in
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To record the time you arrive at work, usually using a machine or app.
In plain English
To press a button or use a card to show what time you started work.
What does "clock in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To record a particular time or score upon arrival or completion of something (informal, extended use).
"The runner clocked in at just under four minutes for the mile."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To record ('clock') your entry ('in') on a timekeeping device.
Actually means
To press a button or use a card to show what time you started work.
Usage tip
Common in workplaces with formal time-tracking systems. 'Clock in' is standard in American and British English. Sometimes used figuratively to mean simply 'arriving and starting work.'
Words that pair with "clock in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
work shift factory system time machine
How to conjugate "clock in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
clock in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
clocks in
he/she/it
Past simple
clocked in
yesterday
Past participle
clocked in
have + pp
-ing form
clocking in
continuous
Hear "clock in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "clock in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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