What are the definitions of “drop in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Visit without having made arrangements.
I was in the area so I DROPPED IN at the office to see her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “drop in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb drop in is to visit someone or a place without making prior arrangements or appointments. It is often used when someone is nearby and decides to visit spontaneously.
What are the different verb forms of “drop in”?
| Root Verb | drop in |
| Third Person Singular Present | drops in |
| Present Participle | dropping in |
| Simple Past | dropped in |
| Past Participle | dropped in |
Example
If you're in the neighborhood, feel free to drop in and say hello.
Example
She often drops in at her friend's house after work.
Example
He is dropping in at the store to pick up some groceries.
Example
Yesterday, they dropped in at the cafe for a quick coffee.
Example
We dropped in at the party for a short while before heading home.
What kind of phrasal verb is “drop 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
“drop 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 dropped in at the office to see her.
Example
He dropped in for a quick chat.
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
“drop 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 dropped in at the office to see her.
Example
He dropped in for a quick chat.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “drop in”?
Drop-in center
A place where people can visit without an appointment, often for advice or support.
Example
The community center has a drop-in center for people seeking job assistance.
Drop-in session
A meeting or event that people can attend without prior arrangements.
Example
The yoga studio offers drop-in sessions for those who cannot commit to a regular schedule.
Good things to know
Does “drop in” have an informal or formal tone?
Drop in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
