filled in

USAGE SUMMARY

"filled in" is correct and usable in written English.
For example: "I filled in the application form as instructed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

had been filled in.

The New York Times

Then the suburbs filled in.

The New York Times

Some filled in answers themselves.

The Economist

The assistant Terry Porter filled in.

The New York Times - Sports

Later, the surrounding moat was filled in.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This was quickly filled in by materialism.

The New York Times

His friends filled in the blanks.

The New York Times

"The picture eventually gets fully filled in".

The New York Times

Another actor filled in.

The New York Times

Wetlands are filled in.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The patients filled-in the Eurolight questionnaire.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "filled in", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being completed or substituted. For example, specify "filled in the form" or "filled in for the absent colleague" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "filled in with" when simply "filled in" suffices. For example, instead of "filled in the application with details", use "filled in the application". The preposition 'with' is redundant here.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "filled in" primarily functions as a verb in the past participle form. It describes the action of completing something by adding necessary information or acting as a substitute, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "filled in" is a versatile verb phrase that is grammatically correct and very common in written English. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe the action of completing forms, substituting for others, or occupying spaces. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, demonstrating its wide applicability. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to ensure clarity by specifying what is being completed or substituted to avoid ambiguity. Common errors include redundant preposition use, such as "filled in with". By following best practices and avoiding common pitfalls, you can effectively use "filled in" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completed the form

Specifically refers to finishing a form, aligning with one common usage of "filled in".

completed

This alternative indicates the action of finishing something, similar to filling in a blank or form.

stepped in

Suggests intervening or taking over, like filling in when someone is absent.

took the place of

This indicates assuming someone else's role or position, similar to filling in for them.

substituted

This suggests replacing something or someone, akin to filling in for another person's role.

covered

This suggests addressing or dealing with something, such as filling in gaps in knowledge or information.

occupied

This implies taking up space or a position, similar to filling in a physical gap.

answered

This refers to providing responses, like filling in answers on a test.

patched up

This refers to repairing or mending, which can be similar to filling in holes or gaps.

populated

This implies adding elements to make something full, similar to filling in details.

FAQs

How can I use "filled in" in a sentence?

You can use "filled in" to describe completing a form, substituting for someone, or occupying a space. For example, "I "filled in" the application form", "He "filled in" for the absent teacher", or "The suburbs "filled in" the open space".

What are some alternatives to "filled in"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "completed", "substituted", "occupied", or "took the place of".

Is it correct to say "filled in with" instead of "filled in"?

In many cases, "filled in" is sufficient and more concise. Using "filled in with" can sometimes be redundant. For example, "I "filled in" the form" is preferable to "I filled in the form with information".

What's the difference between "filled in" and "completed"?

While both can indicate finishing something, "filled in" often implies adding information to something incomplete, like a form. "Completed", on the other hand, suggests finishing something entirely. You "fill in" a form, but you "complete" a project.