What does the phrasal verb “butt in” mean?

What are the definitions of “butt in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Interrupt.

  I hope you don't mind me BUTTING IN on your conversation, but I couldn't help hearing what you said...

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “butt in”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb butt in is to interrupt someone or something, usually in a conversation. It often has a negative connotation, as it implies that the person interrupting is being rude or intrusive.

What are the different verb forms of “butt in”?

Root Verb	butt in
Third Person Singular Present	butts in
Present Participle	butting in
Simple Past	butted in
Past Participle	butted in

Example

Please don't butt in while I'm talking.

Example

He always butts in when we're discussing something important.

Example

She is butting in on their conversation again.

Example

Yesterday, she butted in during our meeting.

Example

He had butted in on their conversation, causing an awkward moment.

What kind of phrasal verb is “butt 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.)

Intransitive verb

“butt in” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

I was trying to speak, but he kept butting in.

Example

She butted in before I could finish my sentence.

📝

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

“butt 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

I was trying to speak, but he kept butting in.

Example

She butted in before I could finish my sentence.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “butt in”?

Butt in line

To cut in front of someone in a queue or line, often considered rude.

Example

He tried to butt in line, but the other people didn't let him.

Butt in on someone

To interrupt someone's conversation or activity.

Example

She always butts in on our discussions, even when it's not her place.

Butt in on something

To interrupt an event or situation.

Example

He butted in on the meeting, causing a disruption.

Good things to know

Does “butt in” have an informal or formal tone?

Butt in is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not appropriate for formal settings or writing. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'interrupt' or 'interject' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “butt in”?

Synonyms

• interrupt
• interject
• interfere
• intrude
• cut in
• barge in
• chime in

Antonyms

• wait
• listen
• allow
• permit
• observe
• respect