What does the phrasal verb “eat in” mean?

What are the definitions of “eat in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Eat at home.

  We didn't feel like going to a restaurant so we ATE IN.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb eat in is to have a meal at home instead of going out to a restaurant or ordering takeout. It usually refers to preparing and consuming food within the comfort of one's own home.

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

Root Verb	eat in
Third Person Singular Present	eats in
Present Participle	eating in
Simple Past	ate in
Past Participle	eaten in

Example

We usually eat in on weekdays because it's more convenient.

Example

She eats in most of the time to save money.

Example

They are eating in tonight because they want to try a new recipe.

Example

Last night, we ate in and watched a movie.

Example

We have eaten in all week, so let's go out for dinner tonight.

What kind of phrasal verb is “eat 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

“eat 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

We ate in last night.

Example

They prefer to eat in on weekends.

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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

“eat 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

We ate in last night.

Example

They prefer to eat in on weekends.

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

Eat in kitchen

A kitchen designed with space for dining, usually including a table and chairs.

Example

Their new house has a spacious eat in kitchen, perfect for family meals.

Eat in or take away

A phrase used by restaurants and food establishments to ask customers if they want to dine inside the establishment or take their food to go.

Example

When I ordered my food, the cashier asked if I wanted to eat in or take away.

Good things to know

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

Eat 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.

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

Synonyms

• dine in
• dine at home
• have a meal at home
• cook at home

Antonyms

• eat out
• dine out
• order takeout
• go to a restaurant