What are the definitions of “grow into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Grow to fit large clothes.
The jacket's a bit big, but she'll GROW INTO it.
- 2Mature or change into.
She's has GROWN INTO a lovely person.
- 3Develop or change over time to fit something.
It may seem difficult at first, but you will GROW INTO the job.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “grow into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb grow into is to develop or change over time, either physically or emotionally, to fit or adapt to something. For example, it can mean a child growing to fit into larger clothes, or a person maturing and changing their personality or behavior.
What are the different verb forms of “grow into”?
| Root Verb | grow into |
| Third Person Singular Present | grows into |
| Present Participle | growing into |
| Simple Past | grew into |
| Past Participle | grown into |
Example
The shoes are too big, but he will grow into them.
Example
She grows into her new role at work.
Example
He is growing into a responsible young man.
Example
Over time, she grew into a confident leader.
Example
He has grown into a talented musician.
What kind of phrasal verb is “grow 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
“grow 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
The puppy will grow into a large dog.
Example
She grew into a kind and caring person.
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
“grow 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
The puppy will grow into a large dog.
Example
She grew into a kind and caring person.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “grow into”?
Develop a deeper connection or understanding with someone over time.
Example
They grew into a strong and loving relationship.
Good things to know
Does “grow into” have an informal or formal tone?
Grow into 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, such as in professional or academic discussions.
