What are the definitions of “dive in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start doing something, usually without planning.
When we saw what was happening, we all DIVED IN to help.
- 2Start eating.
Dinner's on the table, so DIVE IN.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “dive in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb dive in is to start doing something, usually without planning or thinking too much about it. It can also mean to start eating a meal enthusiastically.
What are the different verb forms of “dive in”?
| Root Verb | dive in |
| Third Person Singular Present | dives in |
| Present Participle | diving in |
| Simple Past | dived in |
| Past Participle | dived in |
Example
When the project started, everyone dived in to help.
Example
She always dives in to new tasks with enthusiasm.
Example
He is diving in to the new book he just bought.
Example
Yesterday, they dived in to clean the house.
Example
The team had dived in to complete the project on time.
What kind of phrasal verb is “dive 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
“dive 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
She dived in to help her friend.
Example
He dived in to the pool.
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
“dive 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
She dived in to help her friend.
Example
He dived in to the pool.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “dive in”?
Good things to know
Does “dive in” have an informal or formal tone?
Dive in is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It may not be suitable for very formal settings, where more formal alternatives like 'begin' or 'commence' might be preferred.
