What are the definitions of “muscle in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become involved in something when your involvement is not wanted.
We tried to exclude him of the committee, but he MUSCLED IN.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “muscle in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb muscle in is to become involved in something when your involvement is not wanted. It often implies using force or influence to insert oneself into a situation or group. For example, it can mean joining a conversation without being invited or taking control of a project without permission.
What are the different verb forms of “muscle in”?
| Root Verb | muscle in |
| Third Person Singular Present | muscles in |
| Present Participle | muscling in |
| Simple Past | muscled in |
| Past Participle | muscled in |
Example
He always tries to muscle in on our conversations.
Example
She muscles in on every project, even when she's not needed.
Example
They are muscling in on our territory, and we need to stop them.
Example
He muscled in on the committee, even though we tried to exclude him.
Example
She had muscled in on the conversation, making it difficult for others to speak.
What kind of phrasal verb is “muscle 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
“muscle 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
He always muscles in when we're discussing important matters.
Example
She muscled in on the project, even though she wasn't invited.
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
“muscle 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 always muscles in when we're discussing important matters.
Example
She muscled in on the project, even though she wasn't invited.
Good things to know
Does “muscle in” have an informal or formal tone?
Muscle in is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not commonly used in formal settings or written documents. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'intrude' or 'interfere' may be more appropriate.
