What are the definitions of “lapse into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Gradually and unintentionally enter a particular state or condition, especially a less desirable one.
A hypnotized person lapses into a kind of trance.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lapse into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lapse into is to gradually and unintentionally enter a particular state or condition, especially a less desirable one. It often refers to a change in behavior, mood, or state of mind.
What are the different verb forms of “lapse into”?
| Root Verb | lapse into |
| Third Person Singular Present | lapses into |
| Present Participle | lapsing into |
| Simple Past | lapsed into |
| Past Participle | lapsed into |
Example
She lapsed into silence after hearing the sad news.
Example
He lapses into daydreaming when he's bored.
Example
She is lapsing into a bad habit of procrastination.
Example
He lapsed into a deep sleep after a long day.
Example
She had lapsed into a state of depression after the loss of her job.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lapse 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
“lapse 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
He lapsed into a daydream during the meeting.
Example
She lapsed into a bad mood after 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
“lapse 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
He lapsed into a daydream during the meeting.
Example
She lapsed into a bad mood after the argument.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lapse into”?
Lapse into unconsciousness
To gradually lose consciousness or awareness, often due to illness or injury.
Example
After the accident, he lapsed into unconsciousness and was rushed to the hospital.
Lapse into silence
To gradually stop talking or making noise, often due to a change in mood or focus.
Example
The room lapsed into silence as everyone concentrated on their work.
Lapse into a coma
To gradually enter a state of deep unconsciousness, often due to a medical condition or injury.
Example
The patient lapsed into a coma after suffering a severe head injury.
Good things to know
Does “lapse into” have an informal or formal tone?
Lapse into is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic writing or professional discussions.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “lapse into”?
Synonyms
- slip into
- fall into
- descend into
- drift into
- sink into
- slide into
Antonyms
- emerge from
- recover from
- rise from
- awaken from
- snap out of
- come out of
