English Reference

Phrasal verb

go in

Definition

phrasal verb. to enter a building, room, or other enclosed space.

phrasal verb. to enter a structure or enclosed area; typically used as an intransitive verb of motion.

Examples

“It is starting to rain, so let's go in.”

“The door is open, so you can go in and wait for the doctor in the lobby.”

“The rescue team waited for the smoke to clear before they decided it was safe to go in and search for survivors.”

Examples

simple

“It is starting to rain, so let's go in.”

contextual

“The door is open, so you can go in and wait for the doctor in the lobby.”

complex

“The rescue team waited for the smoke to clear before they decided it was safe to go in and search for survivors.”

Usage

usually used without an object; if an object is used, 'into' is required instead.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'come in' to show the difference in perspective: 'go in' moves away from the speaker, while 'come in' moves toward the speaker.

Pitfall

I want to go in the house.

I want to go into the house.

use 'go in' alone as an adverbial phrase, but use 'go into' when followed by a specific destination.

Phrasal verb

Particles

in

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

go + in

Synonyms

enterstep insidepenetrate

Antonyms

Grammar

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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference