What are the definitions of “brick in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Close or fill a space with bricks.
We BRICKED IN the side window.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “brick in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb brick in is to close or fill a space with bricks. It is often used when talking about construction or renovation projects.
What are the different verb forms of “brick in”?
| Root Verb | brick in |
| Third Person Singular Present | bricks in |
| Present Participle | bricking in |
| Simple Past | bricked in |
| Past Participle | bricked in |
Example
They decided to brick in the old fireplace.
Example
He bricks in the unused door to make the room more secure.
Example
The workers are bricking in the damaged wall.
Example
She bricked in the window to create more wall space.
Example
The opening has been bricked in to prevent access.
What kind of phrasal verb is “brick 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
“brick 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 construction workers bricked in the old doorway.
Example
They bricked the window in to make the room more private.
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
“brick 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 construction workers bricked in the old doorway.
Example
They bricked the window in to make the room more private.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “brick in”?
Brick up
Another way to say 'brick in', meaning to close or fill a space with bricks.
Example
The old entrance was bricked up for safety reasons.
Good things to know
Does “brick in” have an informal or formal tone?
Brick in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in conversations about construction, renovation, or home improvement projects.
