What are the definitions of “wade in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start something or get involved, often without thinking or to forcefully.
He just WADED IN without listening to what anyone had to say.
- 2Attack.
The hooligans WADED IN when they saw fans from the other team.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wade in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wade in is to start something or get involved in a situation, often without thinking or forcefully. It can also mean to participate in an activity or discussion with enthusiasm or eagerness.
What are the different verb forms of “wade in”?
| Root Verb | wade in |
| Third Person Singular Present | wades in |
| Present Participle | wading in |
| Simple Past | waded in |
| Past Participle | waded in |
Example
She didn't hesitate to wade in and help with the project.
Example
He always wades in when there's a debate at work.
Example
They are wading in to the new task with enthusiasm.
Example
Yesterday, she waded in and took charge of the situation.
Example
He had waded in without considering the consequences.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wade 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.)
Intransitive verb
“wade 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
She waded in without thinking about the risks.
Example
He waded in to help his friends in the argument.
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
“wade 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 waded in without thinking about the risks.
Example
He waded in to help his friends in the argument.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “wade in”?
Good things to know
Does “wade in” have an informal or formal tone?
Wade in is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'get involved' or 'participate' may be more appropriate.
