walk in on
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To accidentally go into a room and find someone doing something private or embarrassing.
Literal meaning: To walk in (to a place) on (someone doing something) — somewhat transparent.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To accidentally enter a room and discover someone in a private or embarrassing situation.
"I walked in on my roommate and his girlfriend — I didn't know he had company."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1
idiomatic
neutral
To accidentally interrupt a private conversation or meeting by entering the room.
"I'm sorry — I didn't mean to walk in on you. I'll come back later."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Always followed by the person discovered (e.g., 'walk in on someone'). The situation discovered is often private or embarrassing. Common in both British and American English. Frequently appears in comedy or drama contexts.
Commonly used with
argument private moment conversation someone couple meeting
Forms
Base
walk in on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
walks in on
he/she/it
Past simple
walked in on
yesterday
Past participle
walked in on
have + pp
-ing form
walking in on
continuous
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Synonyms
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