Phrasal verb
come in for
Meanings
to receive something, especially criticism, blame, or other negative attention
to receive something pleasant, such as praise, recognition, or support
Definition
If you come in for something, you receive it, especially something unpleasant like criticism or blame.
“Come in for” means to receive something as a result of what you did or what happened. It is often used with negative things such as criticism, blame, or attack, but it can also be used with positive things like praise. It is fairly formal and common in news and academic-style writing.
Examples
- I came in for a lot of criticism after the meeting.
- You will come in for praise if you stay calm and explain your idea clearly.
- He came in for blame when the project missed its deadline.
- She came in for warm congratulations after her presentation.
- They came in for harsh comments online after the announcement.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “come in for” (receive something) with “come in” (enter a place).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.