Differences between break into and get into
Break into means to enter a place forcibly or illegally, while get into means to enter a place or situation, usually with permission or in a non-violent way.
Meanings and Definitions: break into vs get into
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Get into
- 1Become involved or interested.
She's been GETTING INTO dance music recently.
- 2Become involved in something bad or criminal.
He GOT INTO drugs when he was at university.
- 3Be accepted or admitted.
She did well and GOT INTO Cambridge University.
- 4Become or be accepted as a member.
He GOT INTO the first team for football.
- 5Start a habit or way of acting or behaving.
It took me ages to GET INTO driving on the left.
- 6Be small enough to wear something.
I couldn't GET INTO the boots; they were too tight.
- 7Criticise.
He GOT INTO me for doing it badly.
Usage Examples: break into, get into in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
break into
Example
The thief tried to break into the house.
Example
He breaks into cars for a living.
get into
Example
She wants to get into photography as a hobby.
Example
He gets into trouble often at school.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break into
To enter someone's property without permission or legal right.
Example
The hikers were fined for trespassing on private land.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Get into
To go or come into a place or situation.
Example
She entered the room and greeted her colleagues.
To become a member of a group or organization.
Example
He decided to join the local gym to improve his fitness level.
take up
To start doing a new activity or hobby.
Example
She decided to take up painting as a way to relax after work.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “get”
Phrasal Verbs with “into”
Differences in break into vs get into: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break into or get into?
In daily conversation, people use get into more often than break into. This is because get into is used for more common situations such as entering a building, a car, or a profession. Break into is less common and usually associated with criminal activities. So, while both phrases are used, get into is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break into and get into
Get into and break into are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break into and get into
The tone of break into and get into can differ based on context. Break into often carries a negative or threatening tone when related to illegal activities, while get into typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to entering a new field or hobby.
