What are the definitions of “fall into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start doing something unplanned.
I just FELL INTO my job when an opportunity came up.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall into is to start doing something unplanned or unexpectedly. It often refers to situations or activities that one becomes involved in without prior intention or planning.
What are the different verb forms of “fall into”?
| Root Verb | fall into |
| Third Person Singular Present | falls into |
| Present Participle | falling into |
| Simple Past | fell into |
| Past Participle | fallen into |
Example
She fell into a new hobby after trying it out with a friend.
Example
He falls into a routine easily when he starts a new job.
Example
They are falling into a pattern of arriving late to meetings.
Example
I fell into a conversation with a stranger on the train.
Example
She had fallen into the habit of staying up late to watch movies.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fall into”?
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
“fall into” 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
He fell into a new job after his friend recommended him.
Example
She fell into a deep sleep after a long day.
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
“fall into” 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
He fell into a new job after his friend recommended him.
Example
She fell into a deep sleep after a long day.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall into”?
Good things to know
Does “fall into” have an informal or formal tone?
Fall into 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 settings, depending on the specific context.
