# grow into

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grow-into
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to fit clothes

phrasal verb · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. to adapt to a role

phrasal verb · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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'.

## Examples

- The jacket is big now, but he will grow into it soon.
- It took a few months, but she eventually began to grow into her new role as team leader.
- While the initial responsibilities seemed overwhelming, the young executive managed to grow into the position, eventually spearheading the company's most successful merger.

## Usage notes

- 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.

---

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.