Understanding “Into” and “In to” Simplified

Understanding “Into” and “In to” Simplified

Difference Between “Into” and “In to”

The words “into” and “in to” might look similar, but they have different meanings and uses. Let’s learn about their history, how to use them, and a trick to remember their difference.

History

The word “into” has been used in English for a very long time. It is a preposition, which means it shows a relationship between words in a sentence. “In to” is a combination of the words “in” and “to,” used separately when they come together by chance.

How to Use “Into”

“Into” shows movement from outside to inside or a change of condition or form. For example:

• The cat jumped into the box.
• Pour the juice into the glass.
• The boy turned into a teenager.
• She slipped into her new dress.
• The snow turned into water in the sun.

How to Use “In to”

“In to” is used when “in” is part of a verb phrase and “to” is part of an infinitive verb or functions as a preposition. For example:

• Let’s go in to eat dinner.
• He went in to talk to his teacher.
• Come in to look at this picture.
• She rushed in to help her friend.
• They walked in to find their seats.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember the difference, think about whether there is movement or change (“into”) or separate actions (“in to”). If it shows movement or change, use “into.” If it shows one thing followed by another, use “in to.”

Summary

Use “into” when something moves from outside to inside or changes form. Use “in to” when “in” is part of a verb and “to” is part of a different action. Whenever you are not sure, think about the action taking place.