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1
complete a formto write the necessary information on a form or document.
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2
substitute for someoneto do someone else's job or take their place for a short time.
All meanings, in depth
Ordered by how often you'll hear each one — the meaning tells you what it does, the examples and tips show it in use.
to write the necessary information on a form or document.
Please fill in this application form before your interview.
A: Do I need to fill in all these details?
B: Yes, just write your information in each box.
In my country, when you open a bank account, you have to fill in several forms with your personal details.
Common mistake
✗Please fill the form.
✓Please fill in the form. / fill out the form.
For forms, use 'fill in' (BrE) or 'fill out' (AmE) — bare 'fill' means make full.
Tell it apart
Fill in the form, please.
write in the detailsFill up the tank, please.
make it completely fullUse 'fill in' when you are writing information in spaces on a form or document.'Fill out' is also used in American English with the same meaning.
Often paired with
fill in + form
to do someone else's job or take their place for a short time.
Sarah is sick today, so I'm going to fill in for her at the meeting.
A: Who's teaching our class this week?
B: Mr. Lee is filling in for Ms. Carter while she's away.
Last year, I had to fill in for my manager when she was on holiday, which was a great learning experience.
Common mistake
✗Can you fill in me on Friday?
✓Can you fill in for me on Friday?
To cover someone, use 'fill in FOR them'. (Bare 'fill someone in' means update them with news.)
Tell it apart
Can you fill in for me tomorrow?
do my jobCan you fill me in on what happened?
update me with the detailsUse 'fill in for someone' when you temporarily do their work or role.Not the same as 'stand in', which is more formal and less common in daily speech.
Often paired with
fill in for + person
Turn this into speaking practice
Practise one meaning at a time and save the ones you mix up for review.