1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To begin speaking at length and with energy, especially without being asked or without pausing.
"Before anyone could sit down, he launched into a detailed account of everything that had gone wrong."
inseparable
launch into
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To begin something — especially a speech, activity, or attack — with energy and without hesitation.
In plain English
To suddenly start doing something or talking about something with a lot of energy.
What does "launch into" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To begin a task, project, or activity with sudden, forceful energy.
"The company launched into its biggest recruitment drive in years."
inseparable
3 B2 neutral
To physically attack someone or something suddenly and forcefully.
"The protesters launched into security personnel who tried to block their path."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To 'launch' something — propel it forcefully — 'into' a new space or activity; like a rocket launching into orbit.
Actually means
To suddenly start doing something or talking about something with a lot of energy.
Usage tip
Common in both British and American English. Very frequently used with speech acts: 'launch into a speech/explanation/tirade/story'. Also used for physical attacks or activities. The 'into' suggests moving powerfully from one state directly into another.
Words that pair with "launch into"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
speech tirade explanation attack story presentation
How to conjugate "launch into"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
launch into
I/you/we/they
3rd person
launches into
he/she/it
Past simple
launched into
yesterday
Past participle
launched into
have + pp
-ing form
launching into
continuous
Hear "launch into" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "launch into" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "launch into"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.