Meaning trap
come in
be relevant
to become important, relevant, or applicable in a particular situation, especially when discussing how or when something starts to have an effect.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to become important, relevant, or applicable in a particular situation, especially when discussing how or when something starts to have an effect.
'come in' also has the more basic meaning 'enter (a place)'; this is the advanced sense.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
This is where your previous experience really comes in, as it helps you handle unexpected challenges.
Critical thinking skills come in when students are required to evaluate conflicting sources of information.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: This is where experience comes in to it.
Say: This is where experience comes in.
'Come in' stands alone here ('this is where X comes in') — don't tack 'to it' on.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Where do I come in?' is the natural way to ask about your role; the formal version is convoluted.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
this is where ... comes in
- where you come in
- into play
- is where
- now
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- come in (enter (a place)) — 'come in' also has the more basic meaning 'enter (a place)'; this is the advanced sense.