What are the definitions of “filter in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Move into a lane of traffic without making other cars stop.
The slip lane allows traffic to FILTER IN at the junction.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “filter in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb filter in is to move into a lane of traffic without making other cars stop. It is often used when talking about merging into traffic or joining a line of cars on a road.
What are the different verb forms of “filter in”?
| Root Verb | filter in |
| Third Person Singular Present | filters in |
| Present Participle | filtering in |
| Simple Past | filtered in |
| Past Participle | filtered in |
Example
The cars filter in one by one during rush hour.
Example
The traffic filters in smoothly at the intersection.
Example
The vehicles are filtering in from the side road.
Example
The cars filtered in without causing any delays.
Example
The traffic had filtered in before the light turned red.
What kind of phrasal verb is “filter 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
“filter 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
The cars filtered in smoothly.
Example
The traffic filtered in without any problems.
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
“filter 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
The cars filtered in smoothly.
Example
The traffic filtered in without any problems.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “filter in”?
Good things to know
Does “filter in” have an informal or formal tone?
Filter 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 in written reports or presentations.
