English Reference

Phrasal verb

pitch in

Definition

phrasal verb. to join other people to help with a task or to give money for something. You use this when everyone works together to finish a job.

phrasal verb. to contribute to a joint effort, whether through labor, financial assistance, or ideas. Often implies a collective or communal action.

Examples

“Everyone pitches in to help with the dishes after dinner.”

“After the storm, the whole neighborhood pitched in to clear the fallen branches from the streets.”

“While the initial funding was provided by the state, local businesses were expected to pitch in to cover the remaining operational costs.”

Examples

simple

“Everyone pitches in to help with the dishes after dinner.”

contextual

“After the storm, the whole neighborhood pitched in to clear the fallen branches from the streets.”

complex

“While the initial funding was provided by the state, local businesses were expected to pitch in to cover the remaining operational costs.”

Usage

This phrase is often used alone or followed by 'with' or 'on' to name the task.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'chip in', which usually refers to money; 'pitch in' is more common for physical help or general effort.

Pitfall

We all pitched in the work.

We all pitched in with the work.

The phrase requires a preposition like 'with' or 'on' before the noun describing the task.

Phrasal verb

Particles

in

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

pitch + in

Synonyms

Antonyms

opt outhinder

Grammar

This entry

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference