1 B2 idiomatic informal
To force your way into a situation, business, or territory controlled by others, in order to claim a share.
"A foreign company tried to muscle in on the domestic firm's market share."
inseparable
muscle in on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To force your way into someone else's business, territory, or activity in order to get a share.
In plain English
To push your way into something that someone else controls, using force or pressure.
What does "muscle in on" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use one's muscles (strength) to push in on someone else's space — a transparent but vivid metaphor.
Actually means
To push your way into something that someone else controls, using force or pressure.
Usage tip
Requires a direct object — you always muscle in on something or someone's territory. Frequently used in discussions of organised crime, business competition, and politics. The 'on' is a required part of the structure.
Words that pair with "muscle in on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
territory turf market deal racket business
How to conjugate "muscle in on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
muscle in on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
muscles in on
he/she/it
Past simple
muscled in on
yesterday
Past participle
muscled in on
have + pp
-ing form
muscling in on
continuous
Hear "muscle in on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "muscle in on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "muscle in on"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
elbow in on encroach on horn in on intrude on invade push in on
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