The kids were so engrossed in play they ignored time passing.

In is correct with absorbed indicating deep engagement. This question tests preposition usage. Like and into don’t fit grammatically. Absorbed in denotes complete focus on an activity. Understanding prepositions enhances sentence accuracy. Correct usage ensures clarity in descriptive writing. This preposition is vital for expressing focus in professional or academic contexts ensuring precise context in reports or conversations about behavior or attention strengthening comprehension of grammatical structures in English.