What does the phrasal verb “tap into” mean?

What are the definitions of “tap into”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Use or exploit a plentiful resource for your benefit.

  The company is hoping to TAP INTO the Chinese market.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tap into”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tap into is to use or exploit a plentiful resource for your benefit. It often refers to accessing a source of knowledge, money, or other resources to gain an advantage or improve a situation.

What are the different verb forms of “tap into”?

Root Verb	tap into
Third Person Singular Present	taps into
Present Participle	tapping into
Simple Past	tapped into
Past Participle	tapped into

Example

We need to tap into our creativity to solve this problem.

Example

She taps into her network of contacts to find job opportunities.

Example

He is tapping into his savings to start his own business.

Example

They tapped into the local talent pool to build their team.

Example

The company had tapped into a new market to increase sales.

What kind of phrasal verb is “tap 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

“tap 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

The company tapped into the Chinese market.

Example

She tapped into her network of contacts.

📝

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

“tap 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

The company tapped into the Chinese market.

Example

She tapped into her network of contacts.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tap into”?

Tap into potential

To access or utilize someone's or something's full capabilities or possibilities.

Example

The coach helped the athlete tap into her full potential.

Tap into resources

To access or utilize available resources, such as money, materials, or knowledge.

Example

The project required us to tap into various resources to succeed.

Tap into a market

To access or enter a specific market or customer base to sell products or services.

Example

The company plans to tap into the growing eco-friendly market.

Good things to know

Does “tap into” have an informal or formal tone?

Tap 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 professional settings, such as business meetings or presentations.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “tap into”?

Synonyms

• access
• utilize
• exploit
• leverage
• draw on
• make use of
• benefit from
• capitalize on

Antonyms

• ignore
• neglect
• overlook
• waste
• misuse
• underutilize