In vs. Into
'In' and 'into' are prepositions that may confuse learners. In this lesson, we will learn when to use each of them.
What is Their Main Difference?
Talking about Location
When we want to refer to the location of anything which is enclosed by another object, we use 'in.' Take a look at the following examples:
She placed the rabbit
The rabbit is inside the hat.
The toys are
Talking about Motion
Both 'in' and 'into' can show motion and direction. They are interchangeable. Have a look:
I dived right
I dived right
Harry walked
Harry walked
There is a delicate matter you need to consider: Action verbs can be used with both 'in' and 'into' but state verbs cannot be used with 'into.' State verb do not refer to an action and therefore cannot help representing motion like 'into' does.
He is
He is into the room.
There is no action done by the state verb ‘is’ and into is used incorrectly.