English Reference

Phrasal verb

buy into

Definition

phrasal verb. to believe in an idea or plan and accept it as true. You use this when you decide to support a specific way of thinking.

phrasal verb. to accept or believe in a concept, theory, or plan, often one that is being promoted by others. The verb is transitive and requires an abstract object.

Examples

“I don't buy into the idea that we need a new car.”

“Although the marketing campaign was clever, many consumers didn't buy into the brand's new image.”

“It remains to be seen whether the electorate will buy into the candidate's radical economic reforms before the upcoming election.”

Examples

simple

“I don't buy into the idea that we need a new car.”

contextual

“Although the marketing campaign was clever, many consumers didn't buy into the brand's new image.”

complex

“It remains to be seen whether the electorate will buy into the candidate's radical economic reforms before the upcoming election.”

Usage

Often used in the negative to show skepticism toward a popular trend or theory.

Teaching tip

Useful for business English lessons; it implies a level of commitment or investment in an idea, similar to buying shares in a company.

Pitfall

I don't buy in the idea.

I don't buy into the idea.

Learners often confuse 'buy into' with 'buy in', which usually refers to joining a game or making a financial investment.

Phrasal verb

Particles

into

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

buy + into + object

Synonyms

believeacceptsupportsubscribe to

Antonyms

rejectdismissdoubt

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

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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