What are the definitions of “press into”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Bring or force into use.
When the line was breached, reserve troops were PRESSED INTO service.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “press into”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb press into is to bring or force something or someone into use or action. It often refers to using resources or people in a situation where they are needed urgently.
What are the different verb forms of “press into”?
| Root Verb | press into |
| Third Person Singular Present | presses into |
| Present Participle | pressing into |
| Simple Past | pressed into |
| Past Participle | pressed into |
Example
The coach pressed the new player into action during the final minutes of the game.
Example
She presses the cloth into the wound to stop the bleeding.
Example
He is pressing the button into the slot to secure the device.
Example
They pressed the emergency supplies into use during the storm.
Example
The backup generator was pressed into service when the power went out.
What kind of phrasal verb is “press 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.)
Transitive verb
“press into” 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
The manager pressed the new employee into work immediately.
Example
They pressed the spare tire into use when they got a flat.
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
“press 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
The manager pressed the new employee into work immediately.
Example
They pressed the spare tire into use when they got a flat.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “press into”?
Press into service
To force someone or something into use or action, especially in an emergency or urgent situation.
Example
During the crisis, the government pressed retired doctors into service to help with the increased demand for medical care.
Good things to know
Does “press into” have an informal or formal tone?
Press into is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is suitable for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in written reports or presentations.
