Differences between break in and break into
Break in means to enter a building or a place illegally, often with the intention of committing a crime. On the other hand, break into means to interrupt or start doing something suddenly, often forcefully.
Meanings and Definitions: break in vs break into
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Break in
- 1Go into a building to steal something.
The burglars BROKE IN and stole the TV and video.
- 2Interrupt something.
I'm sorry to BREAK IN on your conversation, but there's a problem.
- 3Train a horse to be ridden.
It took ages to BREAK the horse IN.
- 4Carefully use new products until they are fully functional..
I must watch my speed until I BREAK IN my new Volvo.
Break into
- 1Suddenly start singing or performing.
I almost expected him to break into song.
- 2to successfully enter or establish oneself in a field.
It’s always been his ambition to break into broadcasting.
- 3Enter a building forcibly and illegally.
Michael Masters was giving her a time, and a day, to break into his house and take his pistols.
- 4To suddenly start laughing uncontrollably.
Suddenly I was aware that his neatly parted grey hair was a wig, a discovery which triggered an irrational urge to break into laughter.
- 5To use or access a reserved or designated resource, not for its original intent.
We had to break into our savings to pay the fine.
Usage Examples: break in, break into in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
break in
Example
The thieves broke in and stole the jewelry.
Example
He breaks in to houses when the owners are on vacation.
break into
Example
The thief tried to break into the house.
Example
He breaks into cars for a living.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break in
force entry
To enter a building or a place by using force, often with the intention of committing a crime.
Example
The burglars forced entry into the jewelry store and stole all the valuable items.
To enter someone's property without permission.
Example
The hikers were fined for trespassing on private land.
To enter a place or situation where one is not wanted or invited.
Example
I didn't mean to intrude, but I heard shouting and wanted to make sure everything was okay.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break into
To stop someone or something from continuing what they were doing.
Example
The phone call interrupted our conversation, but we continued talking afterwards.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “in”
Phrasal Verbs with “into”
Differences in break in vs break into: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break in or break into?
In daily conversation, break into is more common than break in. This is because break into can be used in a variety of situations, such as breaking into a song or breaking into laughter. Break in, on the other hand, is less common and usually only used when talking about illegal activities.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break in and break into
Break in and break into are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, break in can have a negative connotation due to its association with criminal activity, so it may not be appropriate in more formal settings.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break in and break into
The tone of break in and break into can differ based on context. Break in often carries a serious or threatening tone, while break into can have a more playful or lighthearted tone.
