Daily Word Box

Install Daily Word Box: tap Share, then Add to Home Screen.

Phrasal verb

buy into

phrasal verb
/ˌbaɪ ˈɪn.tu/

Meanings

phrasal verb

to believe in and accept an idea, explanation, or plan

buy into: to believe in and accept an idea, explanation, or plan
phrasal verb

to join or support a project or system because you believe it will work

buy into: to join or support a project or system because you believe it will work

Definition

To buy into something means to believe in it and accept it as true or worth supporting.

If you buy into an idea, plan, or story, you accept it and believe it is true or a good approach. It often implies you agree enough to support it or follow it. It can also mean you become involved in a system or project because you believe in it.

Examples

  • I don’t buy into the rumor, because the details don’t add up.
  • You’ll buy into the new schedule once you see how much time it saves.
  • She didn’t buy into his excuse and asked for a clearer explanation.
  • They bought into the startup’s mission and volunteered their weekends to help.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse buy into (accept/believe) with buy out (purchase someone’s share or take control).