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grow into

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grow into something

 

1. Lit. [for a child] to develop into a particular type of person. The child grew into a tall, powerful athlete. I hope I have grown into a person my parents can be proud of.

2. Lit. [for a plant] to develop into a mature specimen of its species. This twig will grow into an oak tree. I hope this seedling grows into a fine mango tree.

3. Lit. [for a plant, tumor, toenail] to penetrate into something as it grows. The roots of the tree grew into our sewer line. Try to keep the tree roots from growing into the foundation.

4. Lit. to grow enough to fit into something. The shirt is a little large, but Timmy will grow into it. My shoes are too big, but I will grow into them.

5. Fig. [for a situation or a problem] to develop into something more serious. I hope this matter doesn't grow into something worse. This business is growing into a real crisis.

See also: grow

grow into

1. Develop so as to become, as in The army makes a boy grow into a man. [Mid-1500s]

2. Develop or change so as to fit, as in He'll soon grow into the next shoe size, or She has grown into her job. [Early 1800s]

See also: grow

grow into

v.

1. To develop so as to become something: A child grows into an adult. An acorn grows into an oak.

2. To develop or change so as to fit something: She grew into her job. He grew into the relationship slowly.

See also: grow