Browse all

bow in

C1 formal separable transitive
In simple words

To greet someone by bowing and showing them into a room or place.

Literal meaning: To bow (bend the body) while moving or guiding someone inward.

Meanings

1 C1 formal

To escort or welcome someone into a place while bowing as a show of respect.

"The butler bowed the ambassador in with great ceremony."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Relatively rare. Most often used in formal, ceremonial, or literary contexts, particularly in descriptions of traditional or East Asian customs. Can also be used humorously.

Commonly used with

guest dignitary visitor respectfully ceremoniously

Forms

Base
bow in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bows in
he/she/it
Past simple
bowed in
yesterday
Past participle
bowed in
have + pp
-ing form
bowing in
continuous

Understand "bow in" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

usher in welcome in show in escort in

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "bow in" on Looplines