Definition of Inbox
Quick Meaning of Inbox
The folder in your email where all the messages you receive are collected and shown.
Detailed Definition of Inbox
The folder or section in an email account where received messages are stored and displayed.
How to Pronounce Inbox
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables: IN-baks. Stress the first syllable. The 'a' sounds like 'ah' in 'father'.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce the second syllable like 'books' instead of 'baks'. The 'o' sounds like 'ah', not 'oo'.
Origin and Etymology of Inbox
From 'in' (direction) + 'box' (container). Combines the physical office tray concept with digital email systems. Originated in early email systems in the 1970s–1980s.
How to Use Inbox in a Sentence
Each example shows “inbox” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I have over 500 emails in my inbox that I need to organize.”
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“My inbox is so full that I can't find the important email from my manager.”
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“Many people use inbox management techniques like folders and filters to improve email productivity and reduce cognitive load.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Inbox
Common Synonyms for Inbox
Smart Synonyms for Inbox — When to Use Each
- mailbox
- Broader term for all email storage
- email folder
- General container for organizing messages
- sent folder
- Different folder where outgoing messages are stored
Common Collocations with Inbox
These phrases pair with “inbox” in everyday English:
- email inbox
- check inbox
- empty inbox
- inbox folder
- unread in inbox
Common Mistakes When Using Inbox
Even fluent speakers slip up with “inbox”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I saw the message on my inbox.
- ✓ Correct: I saw the message in my inbox.
- Why: Use preposition 'in' (inside the folder), not 'on'.
- ✗ Wrong: My inbox have many emails.
- ✓ Correct: My inbox has many emails.
- Why: Inbox is singular; use 'has', not 'have'.
- ✗ Wrong: I cleared my inbox messages.
- ✓ Correct: I cleared my inbox. or I deleted the messages in my inbox.
- Why: Don't use 'inbox messages' as a compound; use 'inbox' alone or 'messages in my inbox'.
Other Forms of Inbox
- Noun: inbox
Frequently Asked Questions About Inbox
What is the meaning of "Inbox"?
The folder in your email where all the messages you receive are collected and shown.
How do you pronounce "Inbox"?
The IPA is /ˈɪnbɑːks/. Two syllables: IN-baks. Stress the first syllable. The 'a' sounds like 'ah' in 'father'.
What part of speech is "Inbox"?
"Inbox" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Inbox"?
Common synonyms include email folder, mailbox, message folder.
How do you use "Inbox" in a sentence?
For example: "I have over 500 emails in my inbox that I need to organize."