PhrasesHub

Pencil in

    Definitions

      • make a tentative plan or appointment
        To temporarily schedule a meeting or event, with the understanding that the details may change

      • lightly mark something in writing
        To make a note or reminder by writing it down, typically with a pencil

      • fill in or complete a blank space
        To write information in a designated area, such as a form or document, to provide necessary details or answers

      • reserve a spot or position
        To hold a place or position for someone or something, typically in a list or schedule

    Examples of Pencil in

    • I need to meet with my boss next week, but I'm not sure when. I'll pencil him in for Wednesday afternoon.

      "Pencil in" is a phrasal verb that means to tentatively schedule or plan something. In this example, the speaker is uncertain about the exact time to meet with their boss, so they're making a preliminary arrangement by "penciling him in" for Wednesday afternoon. This idiom comes from the idea of using a pencil to make a light, temporary mark on a calendar or schedule, which can easily be erased or changed.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "pencil in" is commonly used in informal settings to refer to making a tentative plan or appointment. It is often used when discussing scheduling events or meetings, with the understanding that the details may change. This usage of the idiom may also imply that the plan is not set in stone and may be subject to further adjustments.

    Another meaning of "pencil in" is to lightly mark something in writing. This can refer to making a note or reminder by writing it down, usually with a pencil. This usage is often seen in informal or casual contexts, such as making a to-do list or jotting down a quick reminder.

    Additionally, "pencil in" can also mean to fill in or complete a blank space. This usage is typically seen in more formal settings, such as filling out a form or document. It implies the action of writing information in a designated area to provide necessary details or answers.

    Lastly, "pencil in" can also refer to reserving a spot or position. This can be used when holding a place or position for someone or something, typically in a list or schedule. It is often used when discussing making arrangements or preparations for future events.

    Origin of "Pencil in"

    The origin of the idiom "pencil in" is believed to come from the use of actual pencils in scheduling and planning. Before the advent of digital calendars and planners, people would often write their appointments and plans in pencil on a physical calendar or agenda. This allowed for easy erasing and adjustments in case of changes.

    The phrase "pencil in" first appeared in print in the 1920s, and its usage has continued to evolve over time. It has become a common expression in everyday language, used to refer to making tentative plans or keeping track of important information. The use of pencils and erasing in scheduling has decreased with the rise of digital tools, but the idiom remains a popular and widely understood phrase.