English Reference
phrasal verb

bring in

phr.v.

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Law

    to introduce a new rule, law, or system.

    to officially introduce or implement a new law, regulation, or system of organisation.

    Simple

    The government plans to bring in new laws to protect the environment.

    In context

    The administration intends to bring in stricter regulations regarding carbon emissions before the end of the current legislative session.

    Usage

    The object can be placed between 'bring' and 'in' or after the full phrase.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    to earn a particular amount of money for a company or family.

    to generate or produce a specific amount of income or profit.

    Simple

    His new business is starting to bring in a good profit.

    In context

    The annual fundraising gala is expected to bring in over fifty thousand dollars for the local children's hospital.

    Usage

    Commonly used with 'profit', 'income', or specific monetary amounts.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    to ask someone to join a project or group because they have special skills.

    to involve a person or group in a particular activity, project, or organisation, often for their expertise.

    Simple

    We need to bring in an expert to help us with the technical parts.

    In context

    The board decided to bring in a firm of consultants to oversee the restructuring of the marketing department.

  4. 04 A2 Elementary

    to carry something from outside into a house or building.

    to move an object from an exterior location to an interior one.

    Simple

    It is starting to rain, so please bring in the laundry.

    In context

    The gardeners worked quickly to bring in the potted palms before the first frost of the season damaged the leaves.

    carry infetch
  5. 05 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    to give an official decision in a court of law.

    to officially return or deliver a legal verdict or judgment.

    Simple

    The jury took three days to bring in a guilty verdict.

    In context

    After deliberating for nearly a week, the jury finally returned to the courtroom to bring in their verdict on all counts.

    Usage

    Almost exclusively used with the noun 'verdict'.

Teaching tip

this is a versatile phrasal verb; help students distinguish between the 'introduce' sense and the 'earn' sense by looking at the object (law vs. money).

Particles
in
Separability
optional
Pattern
bring + in + object
This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Updated