What are the definitions of “suck into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become involved in something unpleasant.
The country got SUCKED INTO the war.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “suck into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb suck into is to become involved in something unpleasant or undesirable, often unintentionally. It can refer to situations, relationships, or activities that are difficult to escape or avoid.
What are the different verb forms of “suck into”?
| Root Verb | suck into |
| Third Person Singular Present | sucks into |
| Present Participle | sucking into |
| Simple Past | sucked into |
| Past Participle | sucked into |
Example
I didn't want to join the argument, but I got sucked into it anyway.
Example
He always sucks into other people's problems.
Example
She is sucking into a situation she doesn't want to be in.
Example
They sucked into a conflict they wanted to avoid.
Example
We were sucked into the drama without realizing it.
What kind of phrasal verb is “suck 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.)
Intransitive verb
“suck into” 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 got sucked into the argument.
Example
She was sucked into the conflict.
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
“suck 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
I got sucked into the argument.
Example
She was sucked into the conflict.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “suck into”?
Suck someone/something into
To cause someone or something to become involved in an unpleasant situation.
Example
The company was sucked into a financial scandal.
Good things to know
Does “suck into” have an informal or formal tone?
Suck into is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'become involved in' or 'get drawn into' may be more appropriate.