ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hook into

phrasal verb.
C1 Advanced Oxford Informal Technical
Definition

phrasal verb. to connect something to a larger system or power supply; it can also mean to get involved with a group or activity.

phrasal verb. to establish a connection with a larger network, system, or organization; often used in technical contexts for hardware/software or metaphorically for social integration.


SIMPLE

You need to hook into the main power grid.

CONTEXTUAL

The new software allows users to hook into existing databases without changing their current workflow.

COMPLEX

By providing an open API, the platform encourages third-party developers to hook into the ecosystem and build custom tools.

  • link to
  • plug into
  • connect to
  • integrate with
Particles
into
Separability
optional
Pattern
hook + (object) + into + object
Usage

often used with technical systems, networks, or social communities as the object.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'hook up' which focuses on the act of connecting two things, while 'hook into' emphasizes becoming part of a larger, pre-existing structure.

Pitfall

He hooked into the computer to the wall.He hooked the computer into the wall.when used with an object being connected, the object usually comes before 'into' if the verb is used transitively.

Last updated April 24, 2026