rub in
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle in
Meanings
Apply a substance to a surface by rubbing
Why “in”? Walls close around something. What is in is held inside.
“Rub in the cream gently.”
“Rub in the oil with your fingers.”
Don't confuse with
Rub in means apply a substance to a surface by rubbing. Rub on means apply something to a surface by rubbing.
Test yourself
“Rub in the cream gently.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
rub on
A contrast learners often mix up
Apply something to a surface by rubbing
bask in
Same in pattern: inside
Take great pleasure in attention, success or warmth
be in
Same in pattern: inside
Be present at home or at work
box in
Same in pattern: inside
Surround tightly with little room
breathe in
Same in pattern: inside
Inhale air
build in
Same in pattern: inside
Include something as a permanent part of a design
buy in
Same in pattern: inside
Purchase a stock of something for use later
chain in
Same in pattern: inside
Hold someone or something in place using chains
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