What are the definitions of “barge in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Enter a place and interrupt.
He keeps BARGING IN and asking stupid questions when I'm trying to work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “barge in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb barge in is to enter a place suddenly and interrupt what is happening. It often implies that the person entering is being rude or inconsiderate. For example, someone might barge in during a private conversation or a meeting without knocking.
What are the different verb forms of “barge in”?
| Root Verb | barge in |
| Third Person Singular Present | barges in |
| Present Participle | barging in |
| Simple Past | barged in |
| Past Participle | barged in |
Example
Please don't barge in while I'm on the phone.
Example
He always barges in when we're discussing something important.
Example
She is always barging in without knocking first.
Example
Yesterday, they barged in during our private conversation.
Example
He had barged in on their meeting, causing a disruption.
What kind of phrasal verb is “barge 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
“barge 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 barged in without waiting for an invitation.
Example
He barged in and interrupted our conversation.
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
“barge 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 barged in without waiting for an invitation.
Example
He barged in and interrupted our conversation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “barge in”?
Barge in on someone
To interrupt someone by entering their space or conversation without permission.
Example
I didn't mean to barge in on your private discussion; I thought it was a public meeting.
Barge in uninvited
To enter a place or event without being invited or without permission.
Example
He barged in uninvited to the party, causing a scene.
Barge in on something
To interrupt an ongoing event or activity by entering suddenly and without permission.
Example
She barged in on the meeting, demanding to be heard.
Good things to know
Does “barge in” have an informal or formal tone?
Barge in is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, alternative phrases such as 'interrupt' or 'enter without permission' may be more appropriate.
