What are the definitions of “box in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Prevent something from moving, especially vehicles.
I was BOXED IN by the bus and couldn't change lane.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “box in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb box in is to prevent something, usually a vehicle, from moving by surrounding it or blocking its path. For example, it can mean being unable to move your car because other vehicles are parked too close.
What are the different verb forms of “box in”?
| Root Verb | box in |
| Third Person Singular Present | boxes in |
| Present Participle | boxing in |
| Simple Past | boxed in |
| Past Participle | boxed in |
Example
The delivery truck boxed in my car, so I couldn't leave.
Example
He boxes in the other player during the basketball game.
Example
The construction barriers are boxing in the traffic, causing delays.
Example
Yesterday, I was boxed in by two large trucks on the highway.
Example
The car was boxed in by the other vehicles in the parking lot.
What kind of phrasal verb is “box in”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“box in” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The bus boxed in my car, so I couldn't move.
Example
The other players boxed him in during the game.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“box in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The bus boxed in my car, so I couldn't move.
Example
The other players boxed him in during the game.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “box in”?
Good things to know
Does “box in” have an informal or formal tone?
Box in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as news reports or official documents, depending on the specific context.
