"on the panel" vs "in the panel"

Question

"on the panel" vs "in the panel"

Both 'in the panel' and 'on the panel' can be correct depending on the context. 'In the panel' is used when referring to being physically inside the panel, while 'on the panel' is used when talking about being positioned on the surface of the panel.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

Use 'on the panel' when describing something or someone that is placed or located on the surface of the panel.

Examples:

The tools are lying on the panel.
There is a scratch on the panel.

Alternatives:

atop the panel
resting on the panel
positioned on the panel
located on the panel
placed on the panel

Use 'in the panel' when describing something or someone that is physically located inside the panel.

Examples:

The wires are all tangled up in the panel.
There is a hidden compartment in the panel.

Alternatives:

inside the panel
within the panel
within the confines of the panel
enclosed in the panel
contained in the panel

Answer 1

on the panel

This phrase is correct when referring to being positioned on the surface of the panel.

Answer 2

in the panel

This phrase is correct when referring to being physically inside the panel.

"on the panel" vs "in the panel"

on the panel

in the panel

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