Phrasal verbs "creep into" vs "plow into"

Differences between creep into and plow into

Creep into means to gradually and almost imperceptibly enter or become a part of something, while plow into means to collide with something or someone with force.

Meanings and Definitions: creep into vs plow into

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Creep into

• 1. Become noticeable in something.

  An angry tone CREPT INTO her voice.

Plow into

• 1. Collide into at speed.

  The bus skidded and PLOWED INTO the bus stop.

Usage Examples: creep into, plow into in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

creep into

Example

A sense of doubt crept into his mind.

Example

A smile creeps into her face when she sees the surprise.

plow into

Example

The car lost control and plowed into the tree.

Example

The truck plows into the barrier, causing a loud crash.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Creep into

seep into

To gradually enter or spread into something, often unnoticed.

Example

The smell of freshly baked bread seeped into the room and made everyone hungry.

slip into

To gradually become involved in or adopt a habit or behavior.

Example

He didn't realize he was slipping into depression until it was too late.

sneak up on

To approach or surprise someone or something quietly and unexpectedly.

Example

The storm sneaked up on us and caught us off guard.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Plow into

crash into

To collide with something or someone with force.

Example

The car crashed into the wall and caused significant damage.

smash into

To collide with something or someone with great force, often causing damage.

Example

The truck smashed into the parked cars and caused a huge pile-up.

ram into

To collide with something or someone with force, often intentionally.

Example

The protesters rammed into the police barricade and started a scuffle.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “creep”

• creep out on
• creep in
• creep over
• creep out
• creep up on

Phrasal Verbs with “plow”

• plow on
• plow through
• plow back
• plow up

Phrasal Verbs with “into”

• pay into
• talk into
• walk into
• opt into
• buy into

Differences in creep into vs plow into: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: creep into or plow into?

In daily conversation, people use plow into more often than creep into. This is because plow into is used to describe accidents or collisions, which are more common occurrences. Creep into is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about something that slowly becomes a part of our lives or thoughts. So, while both phrases are used, plow into is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of creep into and plow into

Creep into and plow 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 creep into and plow into

The tone of creep into and plow into can differ based on context. Creep into often carries a subtle or sneaky tone when related to ideas or emotions, while plow into typically has a forceful and urgent tone, especially when referring to accidents or collisions.

creep into & plow into: Synonyms and Antonyms

Creep into

Synonyms

• infiltrate
• insinuate
• sneak in
• gradually appear
• slowly emerge

Antonyms

• disappear
• vanish
• dissipate
• fade away
• erase

Plow into

Synonyms

• hit
• impact
• crash into
• collide with
• smash into
• ram into
• run into
• strike

Antonyms

• avoid
• dodge
• evade
• miss
• swerve
• steer clear of