Definition

Verb: - To gradually and carefully move oneself or something into a limited space, especially when it is crowded or difficult to enter. It implies a slow, persistent effort to gain entry or position.

Usage

This verb describes the action of inserting oneself or an object into a tight spot, often requiring patience and slight force due to constraints like a crowd, a narrow gap, or a packed schedule. It is typically used with a person as the subject.

Examples

• Verb:
  • She managed to edge in a few comments during the heated debate.
  • I tried to edge in at the front of the line.
  • He slowly edged the car in between two parked trucks.

Advanced Usage

• "to edge one's way in": A more descriptive phrase emphasizing the careful, incremental movement.
  • The latecomer quietly edged his way in at the back of the lecture hall.

Variants and Related Words

• Edge into (phrasal verb): Similar meaning, often used when the space or situation being entered is specified.
  • He's trying to edge into the conversation.

Synonyms

• Squeeze in: To force oneself or something into a small or crowded space.
• Wedge in: To insert or fix something firmly in a narrow space.
• Insert oneself: To place oneself into a situation, often subtly.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Edge out: To gradually force someone or something out of a position.
  • The new competitor is edging out the established brands.

Related Idioms

• Get a word in edgewise: To manage to say something in a conversation where someone else is talking incessantly. (Note: This idiom uses a variant form "edgewise" and is related to the concept of 'edging in' a comment.)
  • He talked so much that no one could *get a word in edgewise.

Verb

1. push one's way into (a space)