Fill in for – Conversation Practice

Trisha: I heard Mark is going on a four-week backpacking trip in Europe.

Kyle: That’s right. He has worked at this company for 10 years. Anyone who works here for 10 years, gets one month off.

Trisha: That’s cool. I didn’t know that. Anyway, who will fill in for Mark while he is gone? He is in charge of a lot of important work.

Kyle: Several people will fill in for him during his vacation. Giving all of his work to just one person would be too much. So, we will divide it among several senior staff members.

Trisha: Will I need to do anything?

Kyle: You are still a junior member, so you will not be given any additional work directly. But since everyone will have extra work to do, you might be asked to help out.

Trisha: No problem. I’d be happy to pitch in.

Kyle: I’m glad to hear it. I’ll let you know if there is anything you can do.

1. to fill in for (somebody): to do somebody’s work for them temporarily while they are gone

  • One teacher is sick today, so I will fill in for her.

  • She will fill in for James while he is on vacation.

2. to be in charge of: to be responsible for; to be the leader of

  • He is in charge of the sales department.

  • Who is in charge of this project?

3. to help out: to help; to give a hand

  • Can you help me out?

  • I couldn’t finish by myself, so Mark helped me out.