What are the definitions of “muscle in on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become involved in something despite opposition to your involvement.
She MUSCLED IN ON the deal even though we wanted to do it without her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “muscle in on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb muscle in on is to become involved in something, even when others do not want your involvement. It often implies using force or influence to get involved in a situation or activity.
What are the different verb forms of “muscle in on”?
| Root Verb | muscle in on |
| Third Person Singular Present | muscles in on |
| Present Participle | muscling in on |
| Simple Past | muscled in on |
| Past Participle | muscled in on |
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 the local market, making it difficult for small businesses.
Example
He muscled in on the deal, even though we didn't want him involved.
Example
She had muscled in on their plans, much to their annoyance.
What kind of phrasal verb is “muscle in on”?
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
“muscle in on” 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 muscled in on our conversation.
Example
She muscled in on the deal we were making.
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 on” 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 muscled in on our conversation.
Example
She muscled in on the deal we were making.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “muscle in on”?
To join a conversation or discussion without being invited, often interrupting or taking over the discussion.
Example
She has a habit of muscling in on conversations, making it difficult for others to speak.
Good things to know
Does “muscle in on” have an informal or formal tone?
Muscle in on is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations or informal writing. It is not suitable for formal contexts, such as academic writing or professional communication. In more formal settings, alternatives like 'intrude' or 'interfere' can be used.
