1 B2 idiomatic informal
To force your way into a situation or group in order to get a share of the power, profits, or benefits.
"Rival gangs began to muscle in when they saw how profitable the operation was."
inseparable
muscle in
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To force your way into a situation or activity to get a share of the benefits, especially by using power or threats.
In plain English
To push your way into something that isn't yours, using force or pressure.
What does "muscle in" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use physical muscle (strength) to push in — a fairly direct metaphor of physical force applied to a situation.
Actually means
To push your way into something that isn't yours, using force or pressure.
Usage tip
Often used in contexts involving organised crime, business competition, or politics. Implies the intruder has no legitimate right to be there and uses power rather than right to enter. Common in journalistic writing.
Words that pair with "muscle in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
territory market business deal conversation competition
How to conjugate "muscle in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
muscle in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
muscles in
he/she/it
Past simple
muscled in
yesterday
Past participle
muscled in
have + pp
-ing form
muscling in
continuous
Hear "muscle in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "muscle in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "muscle in"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
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