belong in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "belong in" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is appropriate or suitable for a particular place, category, or group. Example: "These books belong in the library where everyone can access them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You belong in the classroom".

The New York Times - Sports

They belong in the country".

The New York Times

It doesn't belong in India".

The New Yorker

Skyscrapers belong in Manhattan.

The New York Times

I'd belong in hell".

The New York Times

They belong in government.

The Guardian - Opinion

They belong in Newport.

The New York Times

"We don't belong in this bill".

The New York Times

Dessert wines belong in small bottles.

The New York Times - Magazine

It doesn't belong in that arena.

The New York Times

Do they even belong in this book?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "belong in" to clearly express that something or someone is correctly or appropriately placed in a particular context or group. For instance, "These files belong in the archive folder."

Common error

Avoid using "belong in" with inanimate subjects when you mean something is simply located somewhere. Instead of saying "The book belongs in the table", say "The book is on the table".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "belong in" functions as a phrasal verb indicating the proper placement or inclusion of something or someone. As Ludwig AI suggests, it expresses the idea that something is rightly situated within a specific context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "belong in" is grammatically sound and widely used to denote appropriate placement or inclusion. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It appears frequently in news and media, and while neutral in register, the phrase effectively communicates the suitability of something or someone within a specific context. Related phrases like "fit into" and "be suited for" offer similar meanings. Remember to avoid using "belong in" when simply describing the location of an inanimate object.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fit into

Focuses on compatibility within a group or environment.

have a place in

Emphasizes the rightful presence or role within a context.

be suited for

Highlights appropriateness for a particular purpose or role.

be appropriate for

Indicates suitability or fittingness for a given situation.

be a part of

Expresses membership or inclusion within a group or whole.

be rightly placed in

Stresses the correctness of being in a specific location or situation.

be correctly assigned to

Emphasizes the accurate categorization or allocation.

be integrated into

Highlights the process of becoming a part of something.

have membership of

Focuses on being a member of a specific group or organization.

be affiliated with

Suggests a formal connection or association with something.

FAQs

How do I use "belong in" in a sentence?

Use "belong in" to indicate that something or someone is appropriately placed or included within a specific group or context. For example: "These documents "belong in" the archive".

What can I say instead of "belong in"?

Alternatives to "belong in" include "fit into", "have a place in", or "be suited for" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "belong to" instead of "belong in"?

"Belong to" indicates ownership, while "belong in" indicates appropriate placement or inclusion. For example, "This book belongs to me" (ownership) versus "This book "belong in" the library" (placement).

When is it appropriate to use "belong in" versus "fit in"?

"Belong in" implies a rightful or natural place, whereas "fit in" suggests compatibility or assimilation. "These files "belong in" the archive" suggests they should be there, while "He wants to "fit in" with the group" suggests he wants to be accepted.