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pitch into

B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To suddenly attack someone (with words or fists), or to start doing something with a lot of energy.

Literal meaning: To pitch (throw) oneself into something — evokes being flung bodily into an activity or conflict.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To attack or criticize someone harshly and aggressively.

"The opposition leader pitched into the prime minister over the handling of the crisis."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

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

"They pitched into the renovation project as soon as the tools arrived."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Has both a combative sense (to attack or criticize) and an energetic sense (to start something with enthusiasm). The combative sense is more common. Used in British and American English. Slightly old-fashioned in the physical attack sense. The 'start energetically' sense overlaps with 'tuck into' when eating.

Commonly used with

work task food opponent critic meal

Forms

Base
pitch into
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pitches into
he/she/it
Past simple
pitched into
yesterday
Past participle
pitched into
have + pp
-ing form
pitching into
continuous

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Synonyms

lay into wade into tear into launch into dive into attack

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