Phrasal verb
back into
Definition
phrasal verb. to move a vehicle backward into a space. You use this when you hit something while driving in reverse.
phrasal verb. to move a vehicle in reverse into a specific location or to collide with an object while reversing. The verb is transitive and inseparable from the object representing the space or obstacle.
Examples
“He carefully backs the car into the garage every evening.”
“The driver didn't see the yellow post and accidentally backed into it while leaving the driveway.”
“The courier had to back into the narrow loading dock while navigating around several pedestrians and parked bicycles.”
Examples
simple
“He carefully backs the car into the garage every evening.”
contextual
“The driver didn't see the yellow post and accidentally backed into it while leaving the driveway.”
complex
“The courier had to back into the narrow loading dock while navigating around several pedestrians and parked bicycles.”
Usage
The phrase is inseparable; the object of the movement or collision always follows 'into'.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'reverse into' for British English learners and mention the figurative use of returning to a routine.
Pitfall
I backed into of the fence.
I backed into the fence.
Learners sometimes add 'of' after 'into' by analogy with 'out of', but 'into' functions alone here.
Phrasal verb
Particles
into
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
back + into + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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