Phrasal verb
reel in
Definition
phrasal verb. to pull something toward you using a line or wire, or to attract someone to your business or idea.
phrasal verb. to bring something closer by winding a line on a reel; figuratively, to attract or secure someone or something through effort or persuasion.
Examples
“The fisherman managed to reel in a huge trout.”
“The marketing team launched a new campaign to reel in more customers before the holiday season.”
“Despite the initial skepticism of the investors, the CEO's charismatic presentation helped reel in the necessary capital for the expansion.”
Examples
simple
“The fisherman managed to reel in a huge trout.”
contextual
“The marketing team launched a new campaign to reel in more customers before the holiday season.”
complex
“Despite the initial skepticism of the investors, the CEO's charismatic presentation helped reel in the necessary capital for the expansion.”
Usage
Often used with 'customers', 'investors', or 'deals' in a business context.
Teaching tip
Use the literal image of a fishing rod to explain the effort and technique required to 'catch' a person's interest or a business deal.
Pitfall
The company tried to reel more clients.
The company tried to reel in more clients.
The particle 'in' is required to complete the phrasal verb meaning 'to attract' or 'to pull toward'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
in
Separability
optional
Pattern
reel + in + 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.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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