1 B1 idiomatic neutral
Of information or a fact, to be gradually and fully understood after first being heard.
"It took a few minutes for the news of his promotion to really sink in."
inseparable
sink in
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
For information, a fact, or a feeling to be gradually and fully understood or emotionally absorbed.
In plain English
When something important finally becomes real or fully understood in your mind.
What does "sink in" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic neutral
Of a feeling or emotion, to be slowly felt and processed after an event.
"She watched the celebration numbly; the joy hadn't quite sunk in yet."
inseparable
3 A2 neutral
Of a liquid, to penetrate and be absorbed into a surface.
"Apply the moisturizer and let it sink in before getting dressed."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
Liquid slowly sinking into the ground — the idea of something penetrating and being absorbed gradually.
Actually means
When something important finally becomes real or fully understood in your mind.
Usage tip
Almost always used for the process of absorbing news, especially surprising or significant news. Very common in everyday English. Often appears in the construction 'it hasn't sunk in yet' or 'let it sink in'. Used in both British and American English.
Words that pair with "sink in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
news reality truth words information loss
How to conjugate "sink in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
sink in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sinks in
he/she/it
Past simple
sinked in
yesterday
Past participle
sinked in
have + pp
-ing form
sinking in
continuous
Hear "sink in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "sink in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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