crash into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "crash into" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something physically colliding with something else, such as a car crashing into a tree. For example: "The driver was going too fast and ended up crashing into a tree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Crash Into Me" is schlocky and largely irredeemable.

The New Yorker

Ships crash into them.

The Economist

Your shovels will crash into our children.

Independent

Or crash into a wall.

The New York Times - Tech

I didn't crash into anything".

The Guardian - Music

Or worse, crash into windows.

The Washington Post

"offset" crash into a solid barrier.

The New York Times

That is until you crash into them.

The Guardian - Film

That's when they crash into docks.

The New York Times

Nominally driving, ministers crash into each other.

The Guardian

Galileo will crash into Jupiter next fall.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "crash into" when you want to emphasize the force and suddenness of a collision. It is suitable for both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "crash into" in purely abstract or conceptual situations where there is no physical impact implied. Opt for more suitable phrases like "conflict with" or "contradict" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crash into" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, denoting a forceful and sudden collision. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing physical impacts, such as vehicles colliding with objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "crash into" is used to describe a forceful and sudden collision. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is frequently used in news reporting and general descriptions of physical impacts. While it is suitable for both formal and informal writing, it's essential to ensure its usage aligns with the intended tone and context. Alternative phrases like "collide with" or "smash into" may be more appropriate depending on the desired emphasis and level of impact. By considering these nuances, writers can effectively employ "crash into" to convey precise meaning and impact in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

collide with

Focuses on the act of impact, omitting potential damage.

ram into

Describes a deliberate and forceful collision.

smash into

Emphasizes the force and potential for destruction upon impact.

plow into

Indicates moving forward forcefully and hitting something directly.

slam into

Emphasizes the loud noise and forceful nature of the collision.

run into

Implies accidental or less forceful contact.

cannon into

Suggests a rapid and uncontrolled collision, similar to a cannonball.

smack into

Implies a sudden and audible impact.

bump into

Suggests a light and often unintentional collision.

impact with

Highlights the moment of striking with a physical force.

FAQs

How can I use "crash into" in a sentence?

You can use "crash into" to describe a physical collision, such as "The car "crashed into" the tree" or "The wave "crashed into" the shore".

What are some alternatives to "crash into"?

Some alternatives to "crash into" include "collide with", "smash into", and "run into", depending on the specific context and the level of impact you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "crash into" in formal writing?

Yes, "crash into" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, particularly when describing a forceful collision. However, consider the tone and context to ensure it aligns with the overall message.

What is the difference between "crash into" and "bump into"?

"Crash into" implies a significant and often damaging collision, while "bump into" suggests a lighter, often accidental contact. The choice depends on the severity of the impact you wish to describe.