What are the definitions of “fence in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Enclose an area.
They FENCED the whole garden IN.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fence in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fence in is to enclose or surround an area with a fence or barrier. This can be done to protect, secure, or define the boundaries of a specific area, such as a garden, yard, or property.
What are the different verb forms of “fence in”?
| Root Verb | fence in |
| Third Person Singular Present | fences in |
| Present Participle | fencing in |
| Simple Past | fenced in |
| Past Participle | fenced in |
Example
We need to fence in the backyard to keep the dog safe.
Example
She fences in her garden to protect it from animals.
Example
They are fencing in the playground to keep children safe.
Example
He fenced in the entire property last year.
Example
The area has been fenced in to prevent trespassing.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fence 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.)
Transitive verb
“fence in” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
They fenced in the garden to keep rabbits out.
Example
She fenced the yard in to create a safe space for her children.
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
“fence 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
They fenced in the garden to keep rabbits out.
Example
She fenced the yard in to create a safe space for her children.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fence in”?
Fenced-in area
An enclosed or restricted area surrounded by a fence or barrier.
Example
The park has a fenced-in area for dogs to play off-leash.
Good things to know
Does “fence in” have an informal or formal tone?
Fence in 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, such as business meetings or written documents, depending on the specific context.
