Get In / Get Into / Go In / Enter: So Many Choices!
The four expressions "go in," "get in," "get into" and "enter" all have a similar meaning.
However, there are small differences in the nuance and usage of each. Some of them even have uses that go beyond moving into a physical space. This article will explain the differences and show you how to use each. Let's begin!
Go in
"Go in" is used when the speaker is outside of the location they are speaking about. In other words, it signals movement in a third direction, away from the speaker and the listener. For example, a staff member at a movie theater may say it when directing customers.
Would you like to go in?
Anybody can go in.
The opposite of this expression is "come in," which is said by the person who is already inside the location they are speaking about. This time, you are referring to the direction moving toward the speaker. In this way, "come" is similar to "join me where I am."
It's nice to see you. Please come in!
Come in before you catch a cold.
If you say "go in to ___," you are indicating the reason or purpose for the action.
He went in to talk to his boss.
I'm going in just to say goodnight.
Get in
While "go in" and "enter," which will be introduced later, only indicate movement from one place to another, "get in" includes the nuance of trying hard to enter a place, or needing to do something before being allowed inside.
That club is very exclusive. Did you get in?
We can't get in because the door is locked.
She struggled to get into her jeans after a week of eating and sleeping.
You can also use "get in" when talking about cars. However, it's important to remember that it changes to "get on" for some vehicles, such as trains and buses.
He opened the car door so his date could get in first.
The train doors closed before they could get on.
"Get in" can also mean "to arrive."
The flight was delayed, so I'll get in at 4 p.m. instead of 3."
Please call me as soon as you get in.
Get into
Like "get in," "get into" also has the nuance of first passing something that is blocking your way.
We got into the car.
Notice that unlike "get in," "get into" is followed by an object that indicates what it is that you are entering.
It was impossible to get into the crowded train during rush hour.
"Get into" can also be used to mean "arrive." Here, too, the object comes next to indicate where you are arriving.
I'll get into Toronto at 4 p.m.
If the object is school, the meaning becomes "to be accepted into."
I really hope I get into that famous university.
Unlike "go in" or "get in," "get into" is often used figuratively. For example, you can use it to say that you are becoming more interested in a hobby or activity.
I've been getting into sewing lately.
He got into playing guitar and practiced every day.
And that's not all! Here are some other ways it can be used.
- get into trouble
- get into a fight
- get into an argument
- get into debt
- get into a mess
It can also be used casually to ask about someone's plans.
What are you getting into this weekend?
Enter
Finally, let's look at "enter." It basically has the same meaning as "go in," but it sounds a bit more formal.
Please knock before you enter.
If you are mentioning the specific place that is being entered, it goes directly after "enter." Also, note that no prepositions, such as "in" or "to," are needed.
Please knock before you enter my office.
"Enter" is also used when typing in an ID or password. You can see the Enter key on the keyboard of a computer, for example.
Enter your 4-digit security code.
It is also used when a company starts doing business in a new country.
We are going to enter the Chinese market next year.
Similarly, it also means "to join," as in the following example sentence:
You need to sign up to enter the contest.
Wrap-up
As you can see, the four simple terms we've discussed in this article have many small differences in usage. However, this is normal since a large amount of English communication happens with just a small number of words.
As you study the terms in this article, remember that even though the basic meaning is the same, some of them suggest difficulty or trial, and others only suggest movement. Some need an object, while others can be used alone. Study hard and master each one!
This article was adapted from an original written by Tamaki Saito.
