Definition

Verb (intransitive): 1. To enter a place by walking, often in a casual, unannounced, or unauthorized manner. This action implies simply walking through an entrance to go inside, typically without a formal invitation or appointment.

Usage

This verb is used to describe the act of entering. It often carries a nuance of informality, spontaneity, or a lack of ceremony. It is frequently used in the simple present or past tenses. * You cannot just walk in; you need an appointment. * The door was unlocked, so he walked in. * She walks in and immediately asks for the manager.

Examples

• "The store had an 'Open' sign, so we walked in."
• "He didn't knock; he just walked in on our private meeting."
• "Customers can walk in anytime between 9 AM and 5 PM."

Advanced Usage

• To walk in on someone/something: To enter a place and unexpectedly find someone in a private situation or to interrupt an activity.
  • I accidentally walked in on my colleague's video call.
• Used as a noun (walk-in): Refers to something designed for entry without an appointment (e.g., a walk-in clinic) or a person who arrives without an appointment.
  • The doctor can see walk-ins after 2 p.m.
  • We have a walk-in closet.

Variants and Related Words

• Walk-in (noun): 1. A person who arrives without an appointment. 2. A large storage closet or room one can enter.
• Walk (verb): The base action of moving on foot.
• Enter (verb): A more formal synonym for going into a place.

Synonyms

• Enter
• Step in
• Come in

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Walk into: Similar to "walk in," but can also mean to enter a place casually or to encounter a problem unexpectedly (e.g., ).
• Walk out: To leave a place suddenly or as a protest.

Verb

1. enter by walking
   • She walks in at all hours, as if she lived here