What are the definitions of “burst into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Catch fire very quickly.
The car BURST INTO flames and the driver died as he didn't have time to get out.
- 2Laugh, cry or clap loudly.
She BURST INTO laughter when she heard the joke.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “burst into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb burst into is to suddenly start doing something, like laughing, crying, or clapping loudly. It often describes a strong and sudden emotional reaction.
What are the different verb forms of “burst into”?
| Root Verb | burst into |
| Third Person Singular Present | bursts into |
| Present Participle | bursting into |
| Simple Past | burst into |
| Past Participle | burst into |
Example
The audience burst into applause after the performance.
Example
He bursts into tears when he hears the sad news.
Example
She is bursting into laughter at the funny story.
Example
They burst into song when their favorite tune played.
Example
The room had burst into cheers when the team won.
What kind of phrasal verb is “burst into”?
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
“burst into” 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 burst into tears.
Example
The car burst into flames.
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
“burst into” 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 burst into tears.
Example
The car burst into flames.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “burst into”?
Burst into song
Suddenly start singing, often in a group or as a spontaneous reaction to a situation.
Example
The choir burst into song when the conductor raised his baton.
Burst into tears
Suddenly start crying, often due to strong emotions like sadness, frustration, or relief.
Example
She burst into tears when she heard the news of her friend's accident.
Burst into laughter
Suddenly start laughing, often due to hearing or seeing something funny.
Example
The audience burst into laughter when the comedian delivered the punchline.
Good things to know
Does “burst into” have an informal or formal tone?
Burst into is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the context.
