What are the definitions of “rub in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Apply a substance like cream or ointment and rub it until it is absorbed.
He applied the steroid cream and RUBBED it IN.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rub in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb rub in is to apply a substance, such as cream or ointment, and rub it until it is absorbed into the skin. For example, it can mean applying sunscreen, moisturizer, or medicine.
What are the different verb forms of “rub in”?
| Root Verb | rub in |
| Third Person Singular Present | rubs in |
| Present Participle | rubbing in |
| Simple Past | rubbed in |
| Past Participle | rubbed in |
Example
She always rubs in sunscreen before going to the beach.
Example
He rubs in the ointment to soothe his skin.
Example
She is rubbing in the moisturizer to keep her skin soft.
Example
Yesterday, he rubbed in the medicine to help heal the wound.
Example
The cream was rubbed in thoroughly to ensure it was absorbed.
What kind of phrasal verb is “rub 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.)
Transitive verb
“rub in” 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 rubbed in the sunscreen to protect her skin.
Example
He rubbed the ointment in to relieve the pain.
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
“rub 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
She rubbed in the sunscreen to protect her skin.
Example
He rubbed the ointment in to relieve the pain.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rub in”?
Good things to know
Does “rub in” have an informal or formal tone?
Rub in 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 medical instructions or skincare advice.
