What are the definitions of “smash in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Break something by hitting it repeatedly.
He SMASHED the windscreen IN.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “smash in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb smash in is to break something by hitting it repeatedly. It often refers to breaking a solid object, such as a window or door, by using force.
What are the different verb forms of “smash in”?
| Root Verb | smash in |
| Third Person Singular Present | smashes in |
| Present Participle | smashing in |
| Simple Past | smashed in |
| Past Participle | smashed in |
Example
He tried to smash in the door with a hammer.
Example
She smashes in the old wall to make room for a new one.
Example
They are smashing in the old windows to replace them with new ones.
Example
The burglar smashed in the window to enter the house.
Example
The car's windshield was smashed in during the accident.
What kind of phrasal verb is “smash 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
“smash 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
He smashed in the door.
Example
She smashed the window in with a rock.
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
“smash 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
He smashed in the door.
Example
She smashed the window in with a rock.
Good things to know
Does “smash in” have an informal or formal tone?
Smash in is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'break' or 'shatter' may be more appropriate.
