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bring in — 3 meanings

One phrase, 3 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb3 meanings
bring in
1introduce or implement2earn or generate money3involve for expertise

Meaning 1 · most common

introduce or implement

  • bring in sth

to introduce or start using something new, like a law, rule, or system.

How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The company decided to bring in new safety regulations after the accident.

A: Did you hear they're going to bring in a new dress code at work?
B: Yeah, I hope it's not too strict.

Common mistake

Not: They want to bring in with a new system.

Say: They want to bring in a new system.

'Bring in' takes the thing directly — no 'with'.

More on “introduce or implement”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

If I were in charge, I would bring in more flexible working hours to help employees balance their work and personal lives.

Tell it apart

They brought in a recycling scheme.

  • introduced it

The shop brings in good money.

  • earns it

Goes with

  • bring in + rule/system
Practice saying this
Next meaning: earn or generate money

Meaning 2

earn or generate money

  • bring in amount/money/noun

to earn or produce a particular amount of money.

How oftenCommon
LevelB1
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

Her online shop brings in about $500 a month.

A: How much does your new job bring in?
B: Not a lot yet, but it's getting better.

Common mistake

Not: The shop brings in of £2000 a month.

Say: The shop brings in £2000 a month.

'Bring in' takes the amount directly — no 'of'.

More on “earn or generate money”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Tourism brings in a significant amount of money to my country every year, which helps support local businesses.

Tell it apart

The rental brings in a steady income.

  • earns money

They brought in a new rule.

  • introduced / implemented it

Goes with

  • bring in + money
Practice saying this
Next meaning: involve for expertise

Meaning 3

involve for expertise

  • bring in person/expert/outsider to do sth

to ask someone to take part in a discussion, project, or activity, especially because they have special knowledge or skills.

How oftenCommon
LevelC1
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The company decided to bring in an external mediator to help resolve the dispute.

A: We're struggling with the new software rollout.
B: Maybe we should bring in an IT specialist to guide the team.

Common mistake

Not: They brought in with a specialist.

Say: They brought in a specialist.

'Bring in' takes the object directly — no 'with'.

More on “involve for expertise”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In situations where internal resources are insufficient, organisations often bring in outside experts to provide fresh perspectives and specialised knowledge.

Tell it apart

They brought in an expert to help.

  • involved them for their skills

They brought up the issue at the meeting.

  • mentioned it

Goes with

  • bring in + expert
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introduce or implementearn or generate moneyinvolve for expertise