What are the definitions of “roll in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Arrive somewhere, especially if late.
They ROLLED IN very drunk at three o'clock in the morning.
- 2Arrive in large numbers, for military vehicles.
The tanks ROLLED IN and took control of the capital city.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “roll in”?
The phrasal verb roll in is more commonly used to describe arriving somewhere, especially when running late. However, it also refers to the arrival of military vehicles or forces in large numbers, particularly in a military context.
What are the different verb forms of “roll in”?
| Root Verb | *roll in* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *rolls in* |
| Present Participle | *rolling in* |
| Simple Past | *rolled in* |
| Past Participle | *rolled in* |
Example
They always roll in late to parties.
Example
He often rolls in after everyone else.
Example
They're discussing the habit of rolling in at odd hours.
Example
Yesterday, they rolled in well past midnight.
Example
The friends had been rolling in together for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “roll 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
“roll 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
They rolled in very drunk at three o'clock in the morning.
Example
He usually rolls in when the meeting is halfway through.
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
“roll 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
They rolled in very drunk at three o'clock in the morning.
Example
He usually rolls in when the meeting is halfway through.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “roll in”?
Good things to know
Does “roll in” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb roll in is informal and suitable for casual conversations. It's essential to choose the appropriate context for its use.
