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When I first started teaching English grammar, my students would ask me: “Teacher, why do we say ‘in a hurry’ but not ‘on a hurry’?” That question leads to one of the trickiest parts of English — understanding how prepositions combine with other words to create fixed phrases. Prepositional phrases with IN are everywhere in spoken and written English, and mastering them will make your language sound more natural and native-like.
You’ll covers 70+ common prepositional phrases with IN, organised by theme and function. Each phrase comes with a full example sentence so you can see how it’s used in real conversation. You’ll find phrases about emotional states (in a good mood), time expressions (in the meantime), and descriptive states (in danger), all with practical examples you can use immediately.
Key Takeaways
- Fixed word patterns — these phrases cannot be broken apart or changed; you must learn them as complete units.
- Emotional & mental states — phrases like “in love,” “in a good mood,” and “in pain” describe how someone feels.
- Time & sequence expressions — “in the meantime,” “in advance,” and “in time” show when things happen.
- Context determines meaning — “in a way” (partially true) is different from “by the way” (incidentally).
- Native speakers use these daily — these 70 phrases appear constantly in films, podcasts, and real conversations.
Prepositional Phrases with IN: Emotional and Mental States
Some of the most common IN phrases describe how someone feels or their emotional condition. These are essential for talking about mood, feelings, and psychological states.
Mood and Emotional Phrases
In a good/bad mood
Definition: Having a particular emotional state or disposition.
Example: I’m not in a good mood today, so please leave me alone.
In love (with)
Definition: Feeling romantic affection toward someone.
Example: I fell in love with her the moment I met her.
In pain
Definition: Experiencing physical suffering or discomfort.
Example: The vet decided to put down the animal as it was in a lot of pain.
In danger (of)
Definition: At risk of something bad happening.
Example: If you don’t change your diet, you’re in danger of becoming seriously ill.
In tears
Definition: Crying; actively shedding tears.
Example: He insulted her appearance and she left the party in tears.
Remember: These emotional phrases are fixed phrases. You cannot say “in an angry mood” — you say “in a bad mood” or simply “angry”. Similarly, you say “in tears,” not “in crying”.
Time Expressions with IN
English uses IN for many time-related expressions, including when something will happen, how long it takes, or when it occurs within a period.
Duration and Timing Phrases
In no time
Definition: Very quickly; in a short time.
Example: Study every day and your level of English will improve in no time.
In time
Definition: Early enough; before a deadline or event begins.
Example: I left my house early and arrived in time to have a coffee before work.
In advance (of)
Definition: Before something happens; ahead of schedule.
Example: It’s a busy restaurant, so we should book a table in advance.
In the meantime
Definition: During the time that something else is happening; meanwhile.
Example: The film starts at 19:00. In the meantime, let’s have some dinner.
In the beginning
Definition: At the start; initially.
Example: It was hard in the beginning, but I soon adapted to life in Ireland.
In the end
Definition: Finally; ultimately; after all is said and done.
Example: In the end, family and friends are the most important people in life.
In future
Definition: From now on; in times to come.
Example: I’m not angry, but in future, text me if you’re going to be late.
Descriptive State Phrases with IN
Many IN phrases describe a condition, state, or situation someone or something is in.
States of Being and Condition
In a hurry
Definition: Needing to move or act quickly; in a rush.
Example: I can’t talk right now as I’m in a hurry.
In a mess
Definition: In a state of disorder; untidy or confused.
Example: The whole house is in a mess. We need to tidy it today.
In good/bad condition
Definition: In a state of repair or disrepair.
Example: My car is in really bad condition so I need to get it repaired.
In stock
Definition: Available for purchase; in inventory.
Example: I wanted to buy the jacket, but the shop didn’t have my size in stock.
In fashion
Definition: Currently popular or trendy.
Example: Beards were in fashion last year, but they’re out of fashion now.
In debt
Definition: Owing money to someone.
Example: He’s in debt, which means he owes money to the bank.
In control (of)
Definition: Having power or authority over something.
Example: He’s not in control of his emotions, so he gets upset very easily.
In charge of
Definition: Responsible for managing or supervising something.
Example: Our president is too incompetent to be in charge of the economy.
Action and Manner Phrases with IN
These phrases describe how an action is done, the medium of an action, or the nature of something.
Method and Medium
In action
Definition: Operating or functioning; doing what it’s designed to do.
Example: I went to Camp Nou to see Lionel Messi in action last week.
In person
Definition: Physically present; face-to-face rather than online or by phone.
Example: I’ve spoken to him on Facebook, but never met him in person.
In cash
Definition: Paying with paper money or coins, not a card.
Example: I’d prefer to pay in cash, if you don’t mind.
In ink/pencil
Definition: Written or drawn with ink or pencil.
Example: It’s better to write in pencil so that you can correct it later.
In detail
Definition: With full information; thoroughly; exactly.
Example: She described what had happened to her in detail.
In secret
Definition: Privately; without others knowing.
Example: I told you that story in secret, and you told half the world!
In private/public
Definition: Away from others’ view / in front of others.
Example: I have to speak to you in private. Do you have a minute?
Opinion and Perspective Phrases
These phrases introduce someone’s viewpoint, belief, or interpretation.
In my opinion
Definition: From my personal viewpoint; as I see it.
Example: In my opinion, Florence is the most beautiful city in the world.
In a way
Definition: Partly true; to some extent; more or less.
Example: Can money buy happiness? In a way, I think so.
In other words
Definition: Said differently; restated for clarity.
Example: I haven’t got a penny to my name this month. In other words, I’m broke.
In common (with)
Definition: Shared by two or more people or things.
Example: I have a lot in common with my best friend.
In comparison with
Definition: Measured against; relative to something else.
Example: The weather in Scotland is awful in comparison with Italy.
Location and Spatial Phrases with IN
In front of
Definition: Facing toward; on the forward side.
Example: There’s a bus stop right in front of my house, which is handy.
In the mountains
Definition: Among or within mountain ranges.
Example: Do you like spending time in the mountains, or do you prefer the sea?
In town
Definition: In the city or town centre; present in a location.
Example: I’ll give you a call if I’m in town next week. It would be nice to catch up.
Additional Common Phrases with IN
In addition (to)
Definition: Also; as well as; furthermore.
Example: In addition to feeling tired, I felt a bit sick.
In agreement with
Definition: Having the same opinion; aligned with.
Example: I’m in agreement with many of the views of my classmates.
In any case
Definition: Regardless; in any situation; no matter what.
Example: I don’t want to go, and in any case, I wasn’t invited.
In brief
Definition: Summarised; in a few words.
Example: The interview was, in brief, a complete disaster.
In case (+ clause)
Definition: In the event that; if something happens.
Example: Take an umbrella in case it rains.
In case of (+ noun)
Definition: If there is an emergency or specific situation.
Example: In case of emergency, dial 911.
In fact
Definition: Actually; in reality; to be honest.
Example: I don’t feel tired at all. In fact, I’m full of energy.
In general
Definition: Usually; typically; in most cases.
Example: In general, I think that people in Ireland are very friendly.
In moderation
Definition: In reasonable amounts; not excessively.
Example: I eat meat in moderation, as I think too much is bad for you.
In one’s free time
Definition: During leisure time; when not working.
Example: I enjoy hanging out with friends in my free time.
In particular
Definition: Especially; specifically; notably.
Example: I enjoyed my trip to London; in particular, I loved Camden Town.
In practice/theory
Definition: In actual reality / in ideal circumstances.
Example: In theory, summers should be warm and sunny, but it never happens here.
In return
Definition: As something given back; reciprocally.
Example: I teach her English and she teaches me Spanish in return.
In the dark
Definition: Not knowing; lacking information.
Example: She hasn’t told me anything. I’m in the dark about her decision.
In the habit of
Definition: Accustomed to; regularly doing something.
Example: I’m in the habit of waking up early and going for a run.
In the news
Definition: Currently being reported in media.
Example: Silly celebrities are often in the news in my country. It’s a shame.
In touch
Definition: In contact; communicating regularly.
Example: I’m not in touch with him any longer. We lost contact a few years ago.
In vain
Definition: Without success; fruitlessly.
Example: I tried to convince her to go out, but all of my efforts were in vain.
Common Mistakes with IN Phrases
✗ Incorrect: I am in a bad mood mood, let me alone.
✓ Correct: I’m in a bad mood, so let me alone.
Why: Don’t repeat “mood” — the phrase “in a bad mood” is complete on its own.
✗ Incorrect: By advance, we need to book the tickets.
✓ Correct: In advance, we need to book the tickets.
Why: The correct phrase is “in advance,” not “by advance.” This is a common confusion with other prepositions.
✗ Incorrect: She told me the secret in confidence, so you must keep it in secret.
✓ Correct: She told me the secret in confidence, so you must keep it to yourself.
Why: “In confidence” means “as a secret” or “in trust.” Once you’ve been told something in confidence, you keep it private, not “in secret” (which is an action).
✗ Incorrect: I will arrive in time for the party.
✓ Correct: I will arrive on time for the party.
Why: “On time” means “not late.” “In time” means “before a deadline” — they’re subtly different and sometimes interchangeable, but “on time” is more common for punctuality.
Sample Dialogue: Catching Up with a Friend
Maya: Hey Sarah, I haven’t been in touch with you for ages. How are you doing?
Sarah: Hi! I know, it’s crazy. To be honest, I’ve been in a bad mood lately because of work stress.
Maya: I’m sorry to hear that. Anything I can help with?
Sarah: Well, in a way, yes. I’m in danger of losing my job if I don’t improve my performance.
Maya: That sounds serious. In my opinion, you should talk to your manager in person and ask for advice.
Sarah: You’re right. I’ll do that. Thanks for listening — in a way, this conversation has really helped.
Quick Quiz
- If you tell someone something “________ ________”, it means you told them as a secret and expect them to keep it private. (Answer: in confidence)
- The phrase “________ ________” means very quickly or in a short time. (Answer: in no time)
- If something is “________ ________”, it is currently popular or trendy. (Answer: in fashion)
- You say “I’m ________ ________ ________” when you’re feeling bad or upset. (Answer: in a bad mood)
- If you’re waiting for something and want to say “meanwhile,” you use the phrase “________ ________ ________”. (Answer: in the meantime)
Answers: 1. in confidence · 2. in no time · 3. in fashion · 4. in a bad mood · 5. in the meantime
Related Grammar Resources
- Common Prepositional Phrases with BY
- Prepositional Phrases with AT, FOR, and Other Prepositions
- 200+ Common English Idioms and Phrases
- Complete List of Prepositions in English
- ↑ Back to pillar: English Grammar Hub
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between “in time” and “on time”?
“In time” means arriving before a deadline or event starts, with some margin to spare. “On time” means arriving exactly when expected, not late. Example: “I arrived in time to enjoy a coffee before the meeting” vs. “The train arrived on time at 9:00 AM.”
Can I use “in” and “by” interchangeably with prepositional phrases?
No, they have different meanings and uses. “In” often describes a state or location, while “by” shows method or agent. Example: “in a hurry” (state) vs. “by car” (method). They are not interchangeable.
How many prepositional phrases with “in” should I try to learn?
Focus on learning the 20-30 most common ones first, such as “in a good mood,” “in fact,” “in particular,” and “in advance.” The rest will become easier once you understand how prepositional phrases work. Native speakers use 50+ regularly without thinking about it.
Are these phrases the same in British and American English?
Almost all these phrases are the same in both varieties of English. There are very few differences — both British and American speakers say “in a good mood,” “in love,” and “in time.” The only variation might be spelling in related words.
What is the best way to learn and remember these phrases?
Learn phrases in context rather than as isolated lists. Read them in full example sentences, use them in your own sentences, and group them by theme (emotional states, time, location, etc.). Spaced repetition and active practice are more effective than memorisation.
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- ↑ Master Pillar: English Speaking
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