Lock in Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To secure something so it cannot change later, often used when confirming a price, schedule, or agreement. It can also mean to trap someone or something so they cannot get out.
Usage & Nuances
Informal to neutral. Common with prices ('lock in a rate'), schedules ('lock in a date'), and agreements. Can also mean to physically trap, but is much more often about decisions or deals. Not to be confused with 'lock' as a noun or 'lock up'.
Example Sentences
We need to lock in the date for the meeting.
basic
You should lock in that low price before it goes up.
basic
Once they sign, the contract is locked in.
basic
Can you lock in your answer before we move on?
natural
Early buyers were able to lock in the old price for two more years.
natural
During the storm, we had to lock in all the animals in the barn.
natural