SpeakUp

Grammar fix

fill out

complete a form

to write information in all the spaces on a form or document.

phrasal verbB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • You need to fill out this form before you see the doctor.daily life
  • In my country, when you apply for a new passport, you have to fill out several forms with your personal information.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: fill out + noun (form, application, document, etc.)

WrongPlease fill the form and sign it.

RightPlease fill out the form and sign it.

Need 'out' (AmE) or 'in' (BrE); bare 'fill' means make full.

Patternfill out + noun (form, application, document, etc.)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff Kindly complete the requisite documentation.

Natural Just fill out the form.

'Complete the requisite documentation' is bureaucratic; 'fill out / fill in the form' is natural.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • fill out + document
    the forman applicationthe paperworka questionnaire

Don't confuse it

'Fill up' means to make something full (like a glass with water), not to complete a form.

Try it in Daily Speak →