What are the definitions of “give in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stop doing something because it's too hard or requires too much energy.
I couldn't finish the crossword puzzle and had to GIVE IN and look at the answers.
- 2Submit homework, etc..
The projects have to be GIVEN IN three weeks before we break up for the end of term.
- 3Surrender, accept defeat.
They GAVE IN when the police surrounded the building.
- 4Offer or submit for judgement, approval.
They GAVE IN their complaint to the court.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “give in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb give in is to stop trying to do something because it is too difficult. For example, it can mean giving up on a difficult task, or surrendering in a competition or argument.
What are the different verb forms of “give in”?
| Root Verb | give in |
| Third Person Singular Present | gives in |
| Present Participle | giving in |
| Simple Past | gave in |
| Past Participle | given in |
Example
I tried to finish the puzzle, but I had to give in after a few hours.
Example
She always gives in to her cravings for sweets.
Example
He is giving in his resignation letter today.
Example
They gave in to the demands of the protesters.
Example
The assignment was given in late, so it was marked down.
What kind of phrasal verb is “give 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
“give 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
She gave in her assignment late.
Example
He gave his resignation in to his boss.
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
“give 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
She gave in her assignment late.
Example
He gave his resignation in to his boss.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “give in”?
To yield to an attraction or desire.
Example
She gave in to the temptation and ate the chocolate cake.
Good things to know
Does “give in” have an informal or formal tone?
Give in is a neutral phrasal verb. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In a formal setting, it might be used to describe a legal or official process, such as giving in a document. In an informal context, it might be used to describe surrendering to a temptation or demand.
