Looping In: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 24, 2023

The phrase "looping in" denotes the act of involving someone or informing them about a certain situation or discussion. It's often used in business or professional contexts, particularly in emails or meetings where one person might need to be informed about or contribute to a particular topic.

In short:

"Looping in" means to involve someone in a discussion or situation by informing them about it.

What Does "Looping In" Mean?

The idiom "looping in" implies the action of including someone in a conversation, project, or situation. If you're "looping in" someone, you're essentially ensuring that they are aware of and possibly contributing to whatever is being discussed or done.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Indicates the act of informing or involving someone
  • Often used in professional or business contexts
  • Could indicate anything from minor updates to major project discussions

Where Does "Looping In" Come From?

Where the phrase "looping in" comes from isn't entirely clear. Some believe it might have started with telegraph circuits or a military term called the command and control feedback loop. It's also thought that it might come from computer programming. In programming, a "loop" is a set of instructions that the computer repeats over and over until a certain thing happens.

10 Examples of "Looping In" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • Looping you in on the meeting; kindest regards.
  • After the meeting, we looped in our supervisor to update him on the progress.
  • On a side note, I just wanted to loop you in on the latest developments.
  • Once the plans are finalized, I'll loop in the rest of the team.
  • Before making any decisions, we should loop in the stakeholders.
  • As per my last email, I wanted to loop you in on the latest updates
  • I wasn't sure about the protocol, so I looped in HR.
  • Could you loop me in on the email chain?
  • You're most welcome! I'll make sure to loop you in on the updates as soon as they come in.
  • I'll be sure to loop you in and inquire about your thoughts on the matter

Examples of "Looping In" in Pop Culture

The phrase "looping in" often appears in media that deal with professional or business situations, such as office dramas or news reports.

Some examples include:

  • In the TV series "Covert Affairs" (2010-2014), Annie Walker tells Olga Akarova, "Look, you've gotten this far without me; why loop me in now?"
  • In the video game "Marvel: Ultimate Alliance," Spider-man tells Lizard, "Are you guys making veiled threats? I can't tell, and I think I should really be on the loop on this."

Other/Different Ways to Say "Looping In"

There are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "looping in."

Some of these include:

  • Including
  • Informing
  • Inviting into the conversation
  • Bringing into the loop
  • Getting someone up to speed

You can use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the level of inclusion or information sharing involved.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Looping In"

  • What does "looping in" mean?

"Looping in" means to involve someone in a discussion or situation by informing them about it. It is often used in professional or business contexts.

  • How can I use "looping in" in a sentence?

You can use "looping in" whenever you are involving or informing someone about a topic, such as "I'm looping in our manager to discuss the project updates."

  • Where does the idiom "looping in" come from?

The phrase "looping in" originates from the physical act of creating a loop to include something or someone. It implies extending the "loop" of communication or involvement to include another person.

  • Can people use the phrase in written communication?

Yes, the phrase is commonly used in written communication, particularly in emails or messages where one person is being informed or included in a conversation or situation.

  • When do people commonly use the phrase "looping in"?

People typically use "looping in" when they want to inform someone about ongoing developments or want to provide an update or summary to bring another party up to speed on events.

  • Can strangers use the phrase "looping in"?

Yes, the phrase is not context-specific and can be used by anyone in any situation that requires someone to be informed or included.

  • Why is it important to practice "looping in" colleagues or team members?

Looping in colleagues and team members is important to maintain open communication, ensure transparency, distribute critical information, and keep people apprised of progress on joint projects or key events at work that may impact them.

  • Is it okay to use the phrase to express inclusion?

Yes, it can be used to convey inclusion, particularly in a conversation or situation where information is being shared or decisions are being made.

  • What's the difference between "looping in" and "keeping in the loop"?

While both phrases indicate inclusion in a conversation or situation, "looping in" implies the act of involving someone, whereas "keeping in the loop" implies ongoing updates or continuous involvement.

  • Can one use the phrase in a non-professional context?

Yes, although it's commonly used in professional settings, "looping in" can also be used in non-professional contexts whenever someone is being informed or included in a situation.

Final Thoughts About "Looping In"

To wrap it up, the idiom "looping in" demonstrates the act of involving someone in a conversation or situation. It is a way of showing that you value their input or feel that they need to be informed about something.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Represents the act of inclusion or information sharing
  • Indicates a process of extending the loop of communication or involvement
  • It has a neutral connotation and is suitable for various contexts

Remember that the idiom expresses the inclusion of a person in a conversation or situation. So it is more appropriate in contexts that involve information sharing or joint decision-making.

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