1 C1 idiomatic informal
To force or maneuver oneself into a business deal, social group, or opportunity, often uninvited.
"He tried to chisel in on the contract negotiations even though no one had asked for his involvement."
inseparable
chisel in
C1 informal intransitive
To force or work one's way into a situation, deal, or opportunity, often for personal gain.
In plain English
To push yourself into a deal, conversation, or opportunity that others didn't invite you into.
What does "chisel in" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use a chisel to work one's way into something — the metaphor of forcing entry with a sharp tool.
Actually means
To push yourself into a deal, conversation, or opportunity that others didn't invite you into.
Usage tip
Dated slang, primarily American. Conveys a sense of cunning or opportunism — someone using cleverness to get a share of something. Rarely used in modern speech; 'muscle in' or 'cut in' are more common alternatives.
Words that pair with "chisel in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
deal business profit share territory
How to conjugate "chisel in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
chisel in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
chisels in
he/she/it
Past simple
chiseled in
yesterday
Past participle
chiseled in
have + pp
-ing form
chiseling in
continuous
Hear "chisel in" in the wild
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Other ways to say "chisel in"
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