Phrasal verb
scatter into
To scatter into means to break up and move in different directions into a place or area.
Meanings
To separate from a group and spread out as you enter a place or area.
To cause things to spread out in many directions into a place.
Definition
Scatter into is used when people, animals, or things separate from a group and spread out as they enter an area or space. It often suggests quick, unplanned movement in many directions. It can describe crowds, children, birds, or objects spreading across a location.
Examples
- When the bell rang, the students scatter into the hallway.
- At the first drop of rain, the tourists scatter into nearby shops.
- The pigeons scatter into the air when a dog runs past.
- After the meeting ended, everyone began to scatter into different rooms.
Common mistake
Learners often say "scatter to" when the meaning is entering a place, but "scatter into" is used for movement spreading inside an area.
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.