Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Come into": Meanings and Usage
Learning English phrasal verbs can be a rewarding journey, and today we're focusing on a particularly versatile one: come into. Understanding how to use come into correctly can significantly enhance your fluency and comprehension, which is a key part of English language learning. This phrasal verb has several distinct meanings, from inheriting wealth to becoming relevant. In this post, you'll discover the various meanings of "come into," explore its grammatical structures, learn related synonyms, and test your knowledge with practice questions. Let's dive in and explore how to effectively use come into!
Table of Contents
- What Does Come into Mean?
- Structure with Come into
- Related Phrases and Synonyms
- Practice Time!
- Conclusion
What Does Come into Mean?
The phrasal verb come into is a fascinating and frequently used part of the English language. It primarily signifies the act of inheriting something, like money or property, often after someone's passing. However, its utility doesn't stop there; come into can also describe the act of entering a physical space, or more abstractly, when something begins to have an influence or becomes relevant. Grasping these diverse applications is crucial for mastering its use in everyday conversation and writing. We will delve deeper into how to use come into effectively.
More: Understanding 'Come In': A Comprehensive Guide for English Learners
Structure with Come into
The phrasal verb come into is typically transitive, meaning it is usually followed by an object. The way you structure sentences with come into will depend on the specific meaning you wish to convey. Let's examine the common structures and explore various contexts to solidify your understanding of come into.
Meaning 1: To Inherit (money, property, a title)
This is perhaps the most common understanding of come into. It refers to receiving assets or a title, usually as a result of someone's death. This is a key aspect when you come into an inheritance.
- Structure: Subject + come into + noun (e.g., money, property, a fortune, an estate, a title)
- Example 1: After years of hard work, it was a surprise when she came into a substantial inheritance from a distant relative.
- Example 2: He will come into the baronetcy upon his father's demise.
Meaning 2: To Enter a Place or State
While "enter" or "come in" are often used, come into can be employed to describe entering a room, an area, or even a state of being or condition. This can include when a new policy comes into effect.
- Structure: Subject + come into + noun (e.g., the room, view, sight, existence, effect, force, power)
- Example 1: As the ship came into the harbor, we could see the welcoming crowd on the dock.
- Example 2: The new regulations concerning data privacy will come into force next month.
Meaning 3: To Become a Factor; To Acquire Relevance or Importance
This usage refers to something starting to have an influence, becoming noticeable, or reaching a point of effective use or recognition. Ideas or qualities can come into their own.
- Structure: Subject + come into + noun (e.g., play, consideration, fashion, its own, prominence, focus)
- Example 1: Her unique artistic talents truly came into their own once she moved to the city.
- Example 2: Several unforeseen factors came into play, affecting the project's timeline.
Meaning 4: To Be Received or Obtained (often unexpectedly)
This meaning is about acquiring or receiving something, sometimes without prior expectation. It's broader than inheritance and can apply to information or objects you come into possession of.
- Structure: Subject + come into + noun (e.g., money, information, use, possession of something)
- Example 1: I came into some fascinating old documents while clearing out the attic.
- Example 2: This specialized tool only comes into use for very specific repairs.
More: Understanding the English Phrasal Verb: Understanding 'Come Before'
Related Phrases and Synonyms
Understanding synonyms can greatly expand your vocabulary and help you use phrasal verbs more precisely. Here are some related words and phrases for the contexts where you might use "come into":
| Synonym | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Inherit | To receive money, property, or a title as an heir at the death of the previous holder. | She will inherit her grandfather's antique watch. |
| Acquire | To come to possess something; obtain, often through effort or purchase. | He hopes to acquire new skills through the training program. |
| Receive | To be given, presented with, or paid something; to experience or be subjected to. | Did you receive the package I sent you yesterday? |
| Enter | To come or go into (a place, a state, or a competition). | Please enter the building through the main doors. |
| Obtain | To get, acquire, or secure something, often through effort or request. | It's often difficult to obtain a visa for that country. |
More: Mastering 'Come Along': Meanings, Usage, and Examples
Practice Time!
Test your understanding of come into with these multiple-choice questions. Choose the best option for each sentence.
Question 1: Which sentence uses "come into" to mean inherit? a) The idea suddenly came into my head.
b) He will come into a significant amount of money.
c) When did this fashion come into style?
d) Please come into the office.
Correct answer: b
Question 2: "When her aunt passed away, Sarah _______ a small cottage in the countryside." Which phrasal verb best completes the sentence? a) came by
b) came into
c) came across
d) came over
Correct answer: b
Question 3: The phrase "come into play" means that something... a) is no longer important.
b) starts to be a factor or have an effect.
c) is used for entertainment.
d) is being inherited.
Correct answer: b
Question 4: "This antique map might _______ use if we get lost." Choose the correct particle for "come". a) come over
b) come into
c) come around
d) come by
Correct answer: b
Conclusion
Mastering phrasal verbs like come into is a significant step in your English language learning journey. Understanding its various meanings โ from inheriting wealth and property to entering a state or becoming relevant โ and its typical structures will boost your confidence in both speaking and writing. Keep practicing its use in different contexts, and you'll find yourself using come into naturally and accurately, enhancing your overall English proficiency.