to settle in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to settle in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of becoming comfortable or acclimated in a new environment or situation. Example: "After moving to the new city, it took me a few weeks to settle in and feel at home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Most everyone seems to settle in easily.

Forbes

I decided to settle in.

The New Yorker

But he has begun to settle in.

The New York Times

We've given you time to settle in.

The New York Times

I used the time to settle in.

The New York Times

I just had to settle in.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet she decided to settle in Israel.

The New York Times - Sports

What led you to settle in Manhattan?

The New York Times - Magazine

You got someone to settle in.

The Guardian

She decided to settle in Chicago, and Schendel soon followed.

The New Yorker

It took about five days to settle in.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to settle in", consider the duration and effort involved in the adjustment. For instance, "It took him a little while to settle in" suggests a more prolonged process than simply saying, "He settled in quickly."

Common error

Avoid using "to settle in" when you actually mean "to settle down", which implies becoming calm or establishing a stable lifestyle. "To settle in" focuses more on acclimating to a new environment or situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to settle in" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the process of becoming comfortable or adjusted to a new environment or situation. Ludwig's examples show its use in contexts ranging from moving to a new city to joining a sports team.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

16%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to settle in" is a versatile and frequently used expression that describes the process of becoming comfortable and acclimated to a new environment or situation. Ludwig's analysis confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in news, wiki, and encyclopedic contexts. While it maintains a neutral register, writers should be mindful not to confuse it with "to settle down". By understanding its nuances and context-specific usage, one can effectively integrate "to settle in" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to become familiar with

This is a general phrase indicating the process of learning about something new.

to get used to

A more general phrase that indicates becoming familiar with something new.

to acclimate oneself

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the process of adapting to a new environment or situation.

to become accustomed to

This option is more formal and suggests a gradual process of getting used to something.

to find your feet

This idiom implies a period of adjustment and becoming comfortable and confident in a new role or setting.

to feel at home

This suggests a sense of comfort and belonging in a new place.

to integrate into

This phrase emphasizes becoming part of a new community or group.

to make yourself at home

This is an idiomatic expression inviting someone to feel comfortable and relaxed in a new environment.

to find your bearings

This phrase suggests orienting oneself in a new physical or metaphorical space.

to get the hang of

This implies learning how to do something new or becoming proficient in a new skill.

FAQs

What does "to settle in" mean?

The phrase "to settle in" generally means to become comfortable or accustomed to a new environment, situation, or routine. It implies a process of adjustment and integration.

How do I use "to settle in" in a sentence?

You can use "to settle in" to describe someone getting used to a new place, job, or any other new experience. For example, "It took a few weeks for her "to settle in" after moving to the new city."

What are some synonyms for "to settle in"?

Some alternatives to "to settle in" include "to acclimate oneself", "to find your feet", or "to become accustomed to". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "to settle in" and "to settle down"?

"To settle in" refers to becoming comfortable in a new environment or situation, while "to settle down" often means to become more calm, stable, or to establish a permanent home or family. For example, you might "settle in" to a new job, but "settle down" in a new house.