# back into

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/back-into
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to move a vehicle backward into a space. You use this when you hit something while driving in reverse.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I backed into of the fence." but "I backed into the fence." — Learners sometimes add 'of' after 'into' by analogy with 'out of', but 'into' functions alone here.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.