What does the phrasal verb “step in” mean?

What are the definitions of “step in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Get involved by interrupting something.

  I had to STEP IN when they started fighting.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb step in is to get involved in a situation, usually to help or to stop something from happening. It often implies interrupting an ongoing event or process.

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

Root Verb	step in
Third Person Singular Present	steps in
Present Participle	stepping in
Simple Past	stepped in
Past Participle	stepped in

Example

When the argument got heated, the teacher decided to step in.

Example

She always steps in when her friends need help.

Example

He is stepping in to resolve the conflict between the two coworkers.

Example

The manager stepped in when the customer became aggressive.

Example

The police had stepped in to control the situation.

What kind of phrasal verb is “step 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

“step 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

The principal stepped in to address the issue.

Example

When the situation got out of control, he stepped in.

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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

“step 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

The principal stepped in to address the issue.

Example

When the situation got out of control, he stepped in.

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

Step in for someone

Temporarily take over someone's responsibilities or duties.

Example

He had to step in for his coworker who was on vacation.

Step in the right direction

A positive action or decision that brings progress or improvement.

Example

Her new job is a step in the right direction for her career.

Step in to help

Offer assistance or support in a situation.

Example

When she saw the lost child, she stepped in to help him find his parents.

Good things to know

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

Step in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in a workplace or academic environment.

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

Synonyms

• intervene
• interfere
• mediate
• participate
• intercede
• get involved
• come to the rescue

Antonyms

• avoid
• disengage
• withdraw
• ignore
• abstain
• step back
• stay out