Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Bring in": Meanings and Usage

Welcome, English learners! Are you ready to expand your English vocabulary? Today, we're diving deep into the versatile phrasal verb "Bring in". This common phrase can be tricky due to its multiple meanings, but don't worry! By the end of this post, you'll understand how to use "Bring in" correctly in various contexts, from discussing new laws to talking about income. We'll explore its definitions, sentence structures, synonyms, and even test your knowledge with a fun quiz. Let's get started on learning more about "Bring in"!

Table of Contents

• What Does "Bring in" Mean?
• Structure with "Bring in"
• Related Phrases and Synonyms
• Practice Time!
• Conclusion

What Does "Bring in" Mean?

The phrasal verb "Bring in" is a fascinating part of the English language, used frequently in everyday conversation and formal writing. It essentially means to introduce something new, to cause something to arrive (like money or people), or to yield a profit. Understanding its nuances is key to improving your English fluency and using phrasal verb meanings effectively.

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Structure with "Bring in"

To truly grasp how to use "Bring in", it's essential to understand its various meanings and the grammatical structures associated with each. This phrasal verb can be separable or inseparable depending on the context and meaning. Let's explore some of its primary uses for using "Bring in" clearly.

Meaning 1: To Introduce (a new law, system, product, or idea)

When "Bring in" means to introduce something, it is often used in formal contexts, especially regarding official changes or new items. This usage helps us discuss innovations and regulations effectively. For example, a government might bring in new policies.

• Structure 1 (Separable): Subject + bring + object + in

  • Example 1: The government plans to bring a new tax law in next year.
  • Example 2: They will bring the new manager in to oversee the project.

• Structure 2 (Inseparable, less common for this meaning but possible): Subject + bring in + object

  • Example 1: The company decided to bring in new technology to improve efficiency.
  • Example 2: The school will bring in a stricter dress code.

This meaning is crucial for understanding discussions about policies and changes. Many students find using "Bring in" this way helpful for formal writing when they want to introduce new law or concept.

Meaning 2: To Earn or Make Money

One of the most common uses of "Bring in" relates to income or revenue. It signifies the act of generating money through work, sales, or investments. Understanding this aspect of "Bring in" is vital for business English and everyday financial discussions, especially when talking about how to earn money.

• Structure (Usually inseparable when object is abstract like 'money' or 'revenue'): Subject + bring in + object (money, profit, revenue, etc.)

  • Example 1: Her part-time job doesn't bring in much money.
  • Example 2: The new product is expected to bring in millions in profit.

• Structure (Separable, when a specific amount or source is brought): Subject + bring + [amount/source] + in

  • Example 1: The successful concert brought over $50,000 in for the charity.
  • Example 2: Our sales team brought a lot of new contracts in last quarter.

This use of "Bring in" is very practical. You might hear it when people talk about their salaries or a company's performance.

Meaning 3: To Involve Someone (in a discussion or activity)

"Bring in" can also mean to ask someone to become involved in a particular situation, often because their skills or knowledge are needed. This use highlights collaboration and the need to involve someone with expertise.

• Structure (Separable): Subject + bring + someone + in (+ on something)

  • Example 1: We need to bring an expert in to solve this technical issue.
  • Example 2: The police decided to bring the suspect in for questioning.

• Structure (Inseparable, less common): Subject + bring in + someone (+ on something)

  • Example 1: Let's bring in Sarah on this project; she has relevant experience.
  • Example 2: The committee will bring in consultants for advice.

This meaning of "Bring in" is often used in professional settings. It's about including people to contribute their specific talents.

Meaning 4: To Attract Customers or Business

Another important meaning of "Bring in" is to attract people to a place or business. This is particularly relevant in marketing and retail. Good advertising can bring in many new customers.

• Structure (Usually inseparable when the object is 'customers' or 'business'): Subject + bring in + object (customers, business, clients)

  • Example 1: The sale is designed to bring in more customers.
  • Example 2: Excellent service will always bring in repeat business.

• Structure (Separable, less common but possible): Subject + bring + [type of customer/business] + in

  • Example 1: Their innovative approach brought a new demographic of shoppers in.
  • Example 2: The annual festival brought thousands of tourists in to the small town.

Understanding this nuance helps in comprehending business strategies and marketing efforts. It shows how actions can lead to increased engagement.

Meaning 5: To Harvest or Gather a Crop

In an agricultural context, "Bring in" means to harvest crops from the fields. This is a more traditional use of the phrasal verb but still relevant, especially in rural communities or when discussing agriculture.

• Structure (Separable): Subject + bring + the crop + in

  • Example 1: The farmers worked hard to bring the harvest in before the rains.
  • Example 2: It's time to bring the apples in from the orchard.

• Structure (Inseparable): Subject + bring in + the crop

  • Example 1: They need to bring in the wheat next week.
  • Example 2: Let's bring in the pumpkins for Halloween.

This meaning connects "Bring in" to the physical act of gathering. It's a good example of how English phrasal verbs can have very specific contextual meanings.

Learning these different structures and meanings will significantly enhance your ability to use "Bring in" accurately and confidently. Pay attention to whether the object can come between "bring" and "in" – this is key for correct phrasal verb usage as you learn English.

Related Phrases and Synonyms

Understanding synonyms can greatly enrich your vocabulary and help you express ideas more precisely. Here are some words related to the different meanings of the phrasal verb we've discussed:

These synonyms offer alternative ways to express the core ideas conveyed by the phrasal verb, allowing for more varied and nuanced communication. Practice using them in different contexts to become more comfortable with their usage.

Practice Time!

Let's test your understanding of the phrasal verb with a few questions. Choose the best option for each sentence.

Question 1: The new CEO hopes to ______ significant changes to improve company morale. a) bring on b) bring up c) bring in d) bring about

Correct answer: c

Question 2: "Our online advertisements are designed to ______ new customers." Which meaning is used here? a) To earn money b) To introduce a law c) To attract people d) To involve someone

Correct answer: c

Question 3: The government plans to ______ a new legislation regarding data privacy. a) bring in b) take in c) call in d) give in

Correct answer: a

Question 4: She works two jobs to ______ enough money to support her family. a) bring down b) bring in c) bring forward d) bring over

Correct answer: b

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly using the phrasal verb we've explored today can significantly enhance your English communication skills. Recognizing its various meanings—from introducing new laws and earning money to involving experts and attracting customers—and knowing its grammatical structures will make your conversations and writing more precise and natural. Keep practicing its usage in different contexts, and you'll find yourself becoming more confident with this versatile phrasal verb. Well done on taking another step in your English learning journey!