sink in
When something important finally becomes real or fully understood in your mind.
Meanings
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."
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."
Of a liquid, to penetrate and be absorbed into a surface.
"Apply the moisturizer and let it sink in before getting dressed."
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.
Commonly used with
Forms
Understand "sink in" better
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "sink in" on Looplines