What does the phrasal verb “plug into” mean?

What are the definitions of “plug into”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To connect or insert something into a power source or another device.

  First plug the keyboard into your computer.

• 2. To connect or join to a computer network or system.

  Plug into computer networks and you’ll find a mine of useless information.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “plug into”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb plug into is to connect or insert something into a power source or another device. It is often used when talking about connecting electronic devices, such as computers, phones, or appliances.

What are the different verb forms of “plug into”?

Root Verb	plug into
Third Person Singular Present	plugs into
Present Participle	plugging into
Simple Past	plugged into
Past Participle	plugged into

Example

Make sure to plug the charger into the wall socket.

Example

He plugs his phone into the charger every night.

Example

She is plugging the printer into the computer.

Example

Yesterday, I plugged the TV into the power strip.

Example

The device was plugged into the wrong outlet.

What kind of phrasal verb is “plug into”?

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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

“plug into” 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 plugged her phone into the charger.

Example

He plugged the computer into the network.

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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

“plug 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

She plugged her phone into the charger.

Example

He plugged the computer into the network.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “plug into”?

Plug into a network

To connect or join a computer network or system.

Example

To access the internet, you need to plug your computer into the network.

Plug into a power source

To connect an electronic device to a power source, such as an outlet or a power strip.

Example

Before using the blender, make sure to plug it into a power source.

Plug into a device

To connect one device to another, such as connecting a keyboard to a computer.

Example

To use the external speakers, plug them into the audio jack on your laptop.

Good things to know

Does “plug into” have an informal or formal tone?

Plug 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 technical instructions or professional discussions about electronic devices.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “plug into”?

Synonyms

• insert
• attach
• link
• join
• connect
• hook up

Antonyms

• disconnect
• detach
• unplug
• separate
• remove
• disengage