ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sink in

idiom
Meaning

To become completely known, felt, or understood.


Examples
SIMPLE

It took a moment for the news to sink in.

CONTEXTUAL

After she received the acceptance letter, it took a few hours for the reality of her success to sink in.

COMPLEX

The gravity of the situation did not fully sink in until the final reports confirmed the extent of the damage.

Anchors to
Related idioms4entries
  1. 01

    everything and the kitchen sink

    Alternative form of everything but the kitchen sink.

  2. 02

    everything but the kitchen sink

    Almost everything, whether needed or not.

  3. 03

    let that sink in

    Used to urge someone to take ample time to fully process or comprehend a surprising, shocking, or impactful statement.

  4. 04

    sink of iniquity

    A place where criminal activity is rife; a resort of criminals.

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