in the socket

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the socket" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is inserted or placed within a socket, such as an electrical outlet or a physical connection point. Example: "Make sure the plug is securely in the socket before turning on the device."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

With the cord in the socket, the game could begin.

The New York Times

So he tried to shove it back in the socket.

The Washington Post

All together now: "Eyes in the socket, eyes in the socket!" It was easy to dismiss Pavement as slackers.

The Guardian - Music

— in the socket See how dying tapers fare!

The New York Times

The acoustic characteristics of leak signals in the socket and spigot pipe segments are investigated.

Measurement

To enable the eye to roll easily in the socket and dart this way and that?

The New York Times - Science

"His hip is now back in the socket, but the socket was fractured".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Dangin is on the short side, with a scruffy mustache and finger-in-the-socket frizz.

The New Yorker

An unruly mass of finger-in-the-socket curls belie his background as a hairdresser.

The New York Times - Style

Could it really be the spawn of Henry Spencer Jack Nancee), above, the sad-sack factoryworker with the finger-in-the-socket shock of hair?

The New York Times

Could it really be the spawn of Henry Spencer Jack Nancee), the sad-sack factoryworker with the finger-in-the-socket shock of hair?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the correct assembly of components, use "in the socket" to clearly indicate proper placement and connection. For example, "Ensure the CPU is correctly seated in the socket to prevent damage."

Common error

Avoid over-tightening bulbs or other components placed "in the socket", as this can damage the socket or the component itself. Use only the necessary force to ensure a secure fit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the socket" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, indicating location or placement. It specifies that something is located within a defined receptacle or socket. As shown in Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used in contexts involving physical connections or anatomical references.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the socket" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to denote location or placement within a receptacle. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains, including news, science, and general knowledge. To ensure clarity, use "in the socket" when describing the precise location of an object. Avoid over-tightening components to prevent damage. While synonyms like "inside the socket" and "within the socket" exist, "in the socket" remains a clear and effective choice for most contexts. Remember that source diversity contributes to a strong understanding of how a phrase is used across diverse fields and how to apply the phrase correctly and clearly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inside the socket

Replaces "in" with "inside", emphasizing the enclosure within the socket.

within the socket

Uses "within" instead of "in", suggesting a location contained by the socket.

fitted in the socket

Emphasizes the action of fitting or being correctly placed in the socket.

housed in the socket

Suggests the socket serves as a protective or structural housing.

connected in the socket

Highlights the connection aspect, specifically within the socket.

secured in the socket

Indicates that the object is safely and firmly positioned in the socket.

situated in the socket

Formally describes the location of something inside the socket.

lodged in the socket

Implies a more forceful or less intentional placement in the socket.

placed in the socket

Uses a more generic term for the act of putting something in the socket.

inserted in the socket

Focuses on the action of inserting something into the socket.

FAQs

How can I use "in the socket" in a technical manual?

In technical writing, "in the socket" should be used to clearly describe the proper placement or connection of a component. For example, "Insert the RAM stick firmly "in the socket" until the clips engage".

What is a more formal alternative to "in the socket"?

A more formal alternative could be "within the receptacle" or "inside the housing", depending on the context. However, "in the socket" is generally acceptable in most writing situations.

Is it correct to say "on the socket" instead of "in the socket"?

No, "on the socket" is not typically correct. "In the socket" implies containment within the socket, whereas "on the socket" would suggest placement on top of it, which is usually not the intended meaning.

When might I use "in the outlet" instead of "in the socket"?

You might use "in the outlet" specifically when referring to electrical connections. While a socket can refer to various types of receptacles, "outlet" is generally understood to mean an electrical power point. For example: "Plug the lamp "in the outlet"".