What are the definitions of “read into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Interpret something in a way that is more significant or meaningful than intended.
I think you’re reading too much into a casual remark.
- 2To interpret or attach significance to something, often with limited evidence or understanding.
It was a lot to read into a smile and a handshake, but he was sure he was right.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “read into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb read into is to interpret something in a way that is more significant or meaningful than intended. It often implies that someone is attaching too much importance to a small detail or action.
What are the different verb forms of “read into”?
| Root Verb | read into |
| Third Person Singular Present | reads into |
| Present Participle | reading into |
| Simple Past | read into |
| Past Participle | read into |
Example
Don't read into her silence; she might just be tired.
Example
He always reads into every little thing she says.
Example
She is reading into his actions too much.
Example
Yesterday, they read into the boss's comment and got worried.
Example
The situation was read into too much, causing unnecessary stress.
What kind of phrasal verb is “read into”?
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
“read 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 read into his words and thought he was angry.
Example
He read into her actions and assumed she was upset.
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
“read 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 read into his words and thought he was angry.
Example
He read into her actions and assumed she was upset.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “read into”?
Good things to know
Does “read into” have an informal or formal tone?
Read into is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional meetings.
