# enter into

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/enter-into
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to officially start a formal agreement, a discussion, or a new period of time.

For teachers: to formally begin or commit to a process, agreement, or relationship; often used in legal, political, or academic contexts.

## Examples

- The two countries decided to enter into a trade agreement.
- Before you enter into a contract, you should always have a lawyer look at the details.
- The government refused to enter into negotiations until all hostages were released and a ceasefire was established.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He entered into the room." but "He entered the room." — use 'enter' without 'into' for physical locations; 'enter into' is for abstract things like agreements.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by an abstract noun like 'agreement', 'contract', 'discussion', or 'details'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with the plain verb 'enter' (physical movement); 'enter into' is for abstract commitments and is much more formal.

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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.