| Phrasal verb | Main meaning |
|---|---|
break in [breɪk ɪn] | to enter a building illegally |
Other meanings
- to interrupt a conversation
- to train someone or something for a new job or activity
- to soften or wear something until comfortable (usually shoes or clothes)
Example Sentences Using the Phrasal Verb "break in"
- Someone tried to break in last night.
- She broke in while we were talking.
- It takes time to break in new shoes.
- The manager is breaking in a new assistant.
Features of Using "break in"
Separability:Inseparable
Transitivity:Transitive and Intransitive
Level:B1
In the "enter illegally" meaning, it’s always inseparable and transitive.
In the meaning of “interrupting a conversation”, it can be intransitive.
For “training” or “softening”, it’s always transitive and inseparable.
Other phrasal verbs with the verb break
break down
stop functioning
break up
end a romantic relationship
break out
to start suddenly (fire, war, disease)
🔗 Learn more about the irregular verb break, including its forms and usage.