What are the definitions of “cave in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Collapse.
The roof CAVED IN because of the weight of the snow.
- 2Stop resisting or refusing.
The government has refused to CAVE IN despite the protests and demonstrations.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cave in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cave in is to collapse or fall down, usually due to pressure or weight. For example, a roof can cave in because of heavy snow, or a tunnel can cave in due to an earthquake.
What are the different verb forms of “cave in”?
| Root Verb | cave in |
| Third Person Singular Present | caves in |
| Present Participle | caving in |
| Simple Past | caved in |
| Past Participle | caved in |
Example
The old building might cave in if it's not repaired soon.
Example
The ceiling caves in when the heavy rain starts.
Example
The walls are caving in due to the pressure from the water.
Example
The roof caved in during the storm last night.
Example
The tunnel had caved in after the explosion.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cave 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
“cave 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
The roof caved in because of the heavy snow.
Example
The old house caved in after years of neglect.
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
“cave 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 roof caved in because of the heavy snow.
Example
The old house caved in after years of neglect.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cave in”?
To give in to a desire or craving, often despite trying to resist.
Example
She caved in to temptation and ate the chocolate cake.
Good things to know
Does “cave in” have an informal or formal tone?
Cave in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
