Phrasal verb
plunge in
Definition
phrasal verb. to start doing something with a lot of energy and without waiting or worrying.
phrasal verb. to embark on an activity or task with suddenness or lack of hesitation. The verb is typically intransitive in this sense.
Examples
“Don't think too much about the project; just plunge in and start.”
“Instead of reading the manual for hours, she decided to plunge in and try to build the shelf herself.”
“Rather than wading through the preliminary data, the researchers chose to plunge in, initiating the primary phase of the experiment ahead of schedule.”
Examples
simple
“Don't think too much about the project; just plunge in and start.”
contextual
“Instead of reading the manual for hours, she decided to plunge in and try to build the shelf herself.”
complex
“Rather than wading through the preliminary data, the researchers chose to plunge in, initiating the primary phase of the experiment ahead of schedule.”
Usage
usually describes starting a task or a conversation without much preparation.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'dip a toe in' to show the difference between starting something with full energy versus starting cautiously.
Pitfall
I decided to plunge in the new project.
I decided to plunge into the new project.
the phrasal verb 'plunge in' is intransitive; use 'plunge into' when followed by a noun object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
in
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
plunge + in
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.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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