# jump in

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/jump-in
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to join a conversation or an activity suddenly, often to help or add an idea.

For teachers: to interrupt or join an ongoing activity or discussion, typically without hesitation or prior invitation.

## Examples

- Feel free to jump in if you have any questions.
- I was explaining the new project when Sarah jumped in to clarify the budget details.
- The moderator encouraged the audience to jump in with their own perspectives as soon as the panel finished the opening remarks.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He jumped in the conversation." but "He jumped into the conversation." — when followed by a noun, use 'into' for the physical or metaphorical movement; use 'in' alone as an adverbial particle.

## Usage notes

- often used in meetings or group discussions to encourage participation.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'interrupt', which can feel rude; 'jump in' often implies a helpful or enthusiastic contribution to a group flow.

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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.