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light into

B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To really go after someone or something — either hitting them, yelling at them, or starting a task with a lot of energy.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To attack or criticise someone harshly and forcefully.

"The senator lit into his opponent over the budget proposals during the debate."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To begin a task, meal, or activity with great energy and enthusiasm.

"The hungry workers lit into the food the moment it was set on the table."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Chiefly American English, especially in informal and Southern regional speech. Used both for physical attacks and for verbal criticism. Also used for attacking a task or meal with enthusiasm.

Commonly used with

critic opponent meal task speech work

Forms

Base
light into
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lights into
he/she/it
Past simple
lighted into
yesterday
Past participle
lighted into
have + pp
-ing form
lighting into
continuous

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Synonyms

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