What are the definitions of “creep in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start to be noticeable.
He tried to stay calm, but you could hear the anger CREEPING IN.
- 2Get included despite attempts to keep it or them out.
Errors CREPT IN as the text got longer.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “creep in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb creep in is to gradually become noticeable or present in a situation. It can refer to emotions, mistakes, or other elements that slowly appear or become apparent over time.
What are the different verb forms of “creep in”?
| Root Verb | creep in |
| Third Person Singular Present | creeps in |
| Present Participle | creeping in |
| Simple Past | crept in |
| Past Participle | crept in |
Example
I didn't notice the mistake until it crept in later.
Example
She always double-checks her work, but sometimes a mistake still creeps in.
Example
As the night went on, a sense of unease was creeping in among the guests.
Example
The cold air crept in through the cracks in the window.
Example
Despite our best efforts, errors had crept in during the editing process.
What kind of phrasal verb is “creep 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
“creep 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 cold air crept in through the window.
Example
A feeling of sadness crept in as the day went on.
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
“creep 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 cold air crept in through the window.
Example
A feeling of sadness crept in as the day went on.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “creep in”?
Good things to know
Does “creep in” have an informal or formal tone?
Creep 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 writing or presentations.
