What does the phrasal verb “dig in” mean?

What are the definitions of “dig in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Start eating greedily.

  We were starving so we really DUG IN when the food finally did arrive.

• 2. Excavate a protective shelter ( military ).

  Anticipating an artillery barrage, we quickly DUG IN.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “dig in”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb dig in is to start eating greedily or with enthusiasm. It is often used when someone is very hungry and eager to eat a meal.

What are the different verb forms of “dig in”?

Root Verb	dig in
Third Person Singular Present	digs in
Present Participle	digging in
Simple Past	dug in
Past Participle	dug in

Example

When the pizza arrived, everyone was hungry and ready to dig in.

Example

She digs in to her favorite dessert whenever she has a chance.

Example

He is digging in to the delicious meal his mom prepared.

Example

Yesterday, they dug in to the buffet at the party.

Example

The food was so good that everyone dug in and enjoyed it.

What kind of phrasal verb is “dig in”?

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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

“dig 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

The food looked delicious, so we all dug in.

Example

After a long day of work, he dug in to his dinner.

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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

“dig 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

The food looked delicious, so we all dug in.

Example

After a long day of work, he dug in to his dinner.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “dig in”?

Dig in one's heels

To refuse to change one's mind or position on an issue, often stubbornly.

Example

He dug in his heels and refused to compromise on the issue.

Dig into something

To investigate or examine something thoroughly.

Example

The detective dug into the case to find the truth.

Dig in for

To prepare oneself for a long or difficult task or situation.

Example

We knew the project would be challenging, so we dug in for a long night of work.

Good things to know

Does “dig in” have an informal or formal tone?

Dig in is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal settings or writing. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'begin eating' or 'start eating' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “dig in”?

Synonyms

• start eating
• tuck in
• begin eating
• commence eating
• eat greedily

Antonyms

• stop eating
• cease eating
• finish eating
• halt eating