What does the phrasal verb “pop in” mean?

What are the definitions of “pop in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Visit for a short time.

  He POPPED IN for a coffee on his way home.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pop in”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pop in is to visit a place or a person for a short time, often without any prior planning. It is used to describe a quick, informal visit.

What are the different verb forms of “pop in”?

Root Verb	pop in
Third Person Singular Present	pops in
Present Participle	popping in
Simple Past	popped in
Past Participle	popped in

Example

I might pop in to see my friend on my way home.

Example

She pops in to the store to buy some milk.

Example

He is popping in to say hello before he leaves.

Example

Yesterday, they popped in to the party for a few minutes.

Example

She had popped in to check on her grandmother.

What kind of phrasal verb is “pop in”?

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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.)

Intransitive verb

“pop 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

I popped in to say hello.

Example

He popped in for a quick visit.

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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

“pop 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

I popped in to say hello.

Example

He popped in for a quick visit.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pop in”?

Pop in on someone

To visit someone for a short time, often without prior notice.

Example

I decided to pop in on my neighbor to see if she needed any help.

Pop in for something

To visit a place for a short time to get or do something.

Example

I popped in for a coffee at the café near my office.

Pop in to do something

To visit a place for a short time to complete a specific task.

Example

She popped in to pick up her dry cleaning.

Good things to know

Does “pop in” have an informal or formal tone?

Pop in is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'visit briefly' or 'stop by' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “pop in”?

Synonyms

• drop by
• stop by
• visit briefly
• call in
• come by
• swing by

Antonyms

• avoid
• leave
• depart
• exit
• stay away