place in

1. To set someone or something inside (of something or some place). In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "place" and "in." He placed the roses in the vase on the hallway table. I'm placing applicants in the board room while they wait for their interviews.

2. To assign someone to some particular group, situation, or scenario. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "place" and "in." They're placing me in a remedial math class after I failed algebra last year. Place half the participants in a group with the active drug, and place the other half in the group taking the placebo.

3. To achieve, first, second, or third place in a sporting competition. I never imagined I would ever place in a national championship when I first started competing in tennis.

place something in something

to put something inside something. Place the rabbit in the pen with the others. Please place your dishes in the sink when you finish.