English Reference

Phrasal verb

grow into

Definitions

01to fit clothes

B1

phr.v. to grow big enough so that clothes which were once too large now fit you perfectly.

phr.v. to increase in physical size until a garment that was previously oversized fits the wearer correctly. The verb is transitive and takes the garment as its object.

“The jacket is a bit big now, but he will grow into it by next year.”

“Parents often buy school uniforms a size too large, assuming their children will grow into them before the first term concludes.”

Usage

Always used with a direct object, typically an item of clothing.

Synonyms

fit

Antonyms

outgrow

02to adapt to a role

B2

phr.v. to become more confident or skilled in a new job or situation as you get older or gain experience.

phr.v. to develop the necessary maturity, confidence, or skill set to fill a particular role or responsibility effectively over time.

“It took a few months, but she really started to grow into her role as manager.”

“Although he initially struggled with the technical demands of the position, he eventually grew into the role and became a key asset to the firm.”

Usage

Often used with abstract nouns like 'role', 'position', or 'responsibilities'.

Teaching tip

highlight the transition from the literal physical sense (clothes) to the metaphorical professional sense (jobs) to help students internalize the concept of gradual development.

Phrasal verb

Particles

into

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

grow + into + object

Synonyms

fitmature intobecome suited to

Antonyms

outgrow

Related words

Grammar

This entry

Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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