horn in
B2 informal intransitive
In simple words
Push yourself into something that isn't your business or that you weren't asked to join.
Literal meaning: To push in using a horn (as an animal forces its way through with its horns).
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To intrude uninvited into a conversation, situation, or activity.
"He always horns in on our team meetings even though he's not part of the project."
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To push into a business deal or profitable situation that others control, in order to take a share.
"A rival firm tried to horn in on the contract at the last minute."
Usage notes
Usually followed by 'on': 'horn in on something'. Implies unwelcome intrusion, often with a suggestion of selfishness or opportunism. More common in American English. Slightly old-fashioned.
Commonly used with
conversation deal territory business meeting profits
Forms
Base
horn in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
horns in
he/she/it
Past simple
horned in
yesterday
Past participle
horned in
have + pp
-ing form
horning in
continuous
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Synonyms
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