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."
inseparable
pitch into
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To attack or criticize someone aggressively, or to begin a task with great energy.
In plain English
To suddenly attack someone (with words or fists), or to start doing something with a lot of energy.
What does "pitch into" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To pitch (throw) oneself into something — evokes being flung bodily into an activity or conflict.
Actually means
To suddenly attack someone (with words or fists), or to start doing something with a lot of energy.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "pitch into"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
work task food opponent critic meal
How to conjugate "pitch into"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "pitch into" in the wild
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Other ways to say "pitch into"
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