What are the definitions of “trade in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Exchange something old as part of the price of something new.
She TRADED IN her old car for the new model.
- 2Leave your wife or husband to marry someone younger.
He TRADED IN his wife when he became the chairman.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “trade in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb trade in is to exchange something old or used as part of the payment for something new, usually of the same type. For example, it can mean exchanging an old car for a new one or giving an old phone to get a discount on a new one.
What are the different verb forms of “trade in”?
| Root Verb | trade in |
| Third Person Singular Present | trades in |
| Present Participle | trading in |
| Simple Past | traded in |
| Past Participle | traded in |
Example
I want to trade in my old phone for a new one.
Example
She trades in her car every few years for a newer model.
Example
He is trading in his old laptop for a better one.
Example
They traded in their old furniture when they moved to a new house.
Example
The old equipment was traded in for new, more efficient machines.
What kind of phrasal verb is “trade 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
“trade 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 traded in her old car for a new one.
Example
He traded his old phone in for a better model.
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
“trade 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 traded in her old car for a new one.
Example
He traded his old phone in for a better model.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “trade in”?
Trade-in value
The amount of money a seller is willing to give you for your old item when you buy a new one.
Example
The trade-in value of my old car was higher than I expected.
Trade-in program
A program offered by a company or store that allows customers to exchange their old items for new ones, often with a discount.
Example
The store has a trade-in program for old electronics, so you can save money on your new purchase.
Good things to know
Does “trade in” have an informal or formal tone?
Trade 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 found in more formal settings, such as business transactions or legal documents.
