be in for something

be in for

1. To anticipate or be very likely to experience something, usually that which will be unpleasant or undesirable. They just called another general meeting with the staff. It looks like we're in for more bad news. A lot of people were in for a rude awakening when the crappy high-interest mortgages they bought turned out to be worthless. If you think being a parent is easy, then you're in for a surprise!

2. To be involved with or a part of something for a particular reason or purpose. More usually "be in it for." I'm not really that concerned with nonprofit work. I'm in for the boost it will give my career. I don't trust the new guy at all—I just have this sense that he's in it for nefarious reasons. You didn't come on this reality show to find love, you're just in it for the media exposure!

3. To be in prison or similarly detained for a particular reason. What are you in for? My brother is in for stealing a car. I didn't know Joel that well, but, even so, I was shocked to hear that he was in for such a violent crime.

See also: for

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

be ˈin for something

1 be about to get or experience something unpleasant, for example a shock, a surprise, trouble, bad weather, etc: He’ll be in for a big surprise when he opens that letter. ♢ I think we’re in for trouble with the new boss.
2 be taking part in something, for example, a competition; be trying to get something, for example, a job: I’m in for both the 100 metres race and the long jump. ♢ I hope Jan gets that professorship she’s in for.

See also: for, something

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017