1 C1 idiomatic informal
To gain access to a place, group, or position of trust through cunning, deception, or flattery.
"Somehow he weaselled his way into the exclusive party without an invitation."
inseparable
weasel into
C1 informal inseparable transitive
To gain entry to a place, group, or situation by using sly, dishonest, or manipulative means.
In plain English
To get into something you shouldn't be in by being sneaky or tricky.
What does "weasel into" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic informal
To insert oneself into someone's confidence or affection through manipulative behaviour.
"She managed to weasel into the boss's good graces within her first month."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move like a weasel into a space — weasels are associated with sneakiness and cleverness.
Actually means
To get into something you shouldn't be in by being sneaky or tricky.
Usage tip
Has a strong negative connotation; implies dishonesty or lack of scruples. Often used to describe someone gaining social access or favour through manipulation. The comparison is to a weasel's reputation for cunning and slyness. Common in informal British and American English.
Words that pair with "weasel into"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
position favour meeting group party organization someone's confidence
How to conjugate "weasel into"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
weasel into
I/you/we/they
3rd person
weasels into
he/she/it
Past simple
weaseled into
yesterday
Past participle
weaseled into
have + pp
-ing form
weaseling into
continuous
Hear "weasel into" in the wild
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