What are the definitions of “invest in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To put money or resources into something with the expectation of gaining a profit or benefit.
I think it’s time I invested in a new computer.
- 2To put money, effort, or time into something with the expectation of achieving a profit or result.
You have to be willing to invest a lot of time in taking care of elderly parents.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “invest in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb invest in is to put money or resources into something, such as a business or project, with the expectation of gaining a profit or benefit. It can also mean putting effort or time into something with the hope of achieving a positive result.
What are the different verb forms of “invest in”?
| Root Verb | invest in |
| Third Person Singular Present | invests in |
| Present Participle | investing in |
| Simple Past | invested in |
| Past Participle | invested in |
Example
She wants to invest in a new business venture.
Example
He invests in stocks and bonds to grow his wealth.
Example
They are investing in renewable energy projects.
Example
Last year, we invested in a startup company.
Example
She has invested in several successful companies.
What kind of phrasal verb is “invest 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
“invest 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
He invested in a new computer.
Example
She invested a lot of time in learning a new language.
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
“invest 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
He invested in a new computer.
Example
She invested a lot of time in learning a new language.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “invest in”?
Good things to know
Does “invest in” have an informal or formal tone?
Invest in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business discussions or financial planning.
