tap into
To find a way to use something that was already there but not being used.
Meanings
To access and make use of a resource, ability, or source of supply that was previously unused or underused.
"The programme is designed to help young people tap into their creative potential."
"America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves — if our children should live to see the next century, what change will they see? What progress will we have made? ... We need to tap into the ingenuity of the American people."
— Barack Obama, Victory Speech, Chicago, November 4, 2008
To connect to or access a system, network, or communication channel, sometimes secretly.
"Security services were accused of tapping into private phone calls."
Very common in business, education, and psychology. Often used with abstract nouns like 'potential', 'feelings', or 'market'. The metaphor comes from tapping into a water or oil pipe to access what flows inside. Also used in technology for accessing networks or systems.
Commonly used with
Forms
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