The phrasal verb "hand in" is commonly used in both formal and informal speech, though it tends to appear more frequently within formal or semi-formal contexts, especially in environments such as schools, workplaces, or official settings. It describes the act of submitting something, typically a document or assignment, to someone in authority—for example, when a student hands in a paper to a teacher or an employee hands in a project report to a manager. The phrase suggests a formal exchange or a completion of a task that requires acknowledgment from the receiving party. While "hand in" serves a straightforward purpose, it carries a sense of adherence to protocol or procedure. Its usage outside official contexts is less common but can still occur in casual settings when referring to tasks requiring completion or submission.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To submit or deliver something, such as a document, assignment, or piece of work to a person in authority.
I have to hand in my essay by the end of the week.
The employees were required to hand in their reports every Friday.
After completing the survey, participants were asked to hand in their questionnaires.
She handed in her resignation letter to the boss.
Students must hand in all homework by the stated deadline.