What does the phrasal verb “deal in” mean?

What are the definitions of “deal in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To buy and sell a particular type of goods or services.

  The police said she was dealing in stolen goods.

• 2. To be involved in or specialize in a particular type of business or trade.

  a small company that deals in rare books

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb deal in is to buy and sell a specific type of goods or services, or to be involved in a particular type of business or trade. For example, a person can deal in antiques, meaning they buy and sell antique items.

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

Root Verb	deal in
Third Person Singular Present	deals in
Present Participle	dealing in
Simple Past	dealt in
Past Participle	dealt in

Example

He deals in vintage cars.

Example

She deals in handmade jewelry.

Example

They are dealing in organic produce.

Example

He dealt in rare stamps for many years.

Example

She has dealt in real estate for over a decade.

What kind of phrasal verb is “deal in”?

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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

“deal 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 shop deals in second-hand clothes.

Example

He deals in vintage furniture.

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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

“deal 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 shop deals in second-hand clothes.

Example

He deals in vintage furniture.

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

Deal in facts

To focus on or discuss factual information, rather than opinions or speculation.

Example

As a journalist, it's important to deal in facts and verify information before publishing.

Deal in absolutes

To think or speak in terms of certainty, without considering other possibilities or nuances.

Example

It's not helpful to deal in absolutes when discussing complex issues.

Deal in generalities

To discuss or consider things in broad, general terms, rather than focusing on specific details or examples.

Example

When planning a project, it's important not to deal in generalities, but to focus on specific tasks and goals.

Good things to know

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

Deal 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 business discussions or academic writing.

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

Synonyms

• trade
• transact
• buy and sell
• handle
• specialize in
• engage in
• do business in

Antonyms

• avoid
• ignore
• neglect
• exclude
• abstain
• refrain
• shun