edges in
/ˈɛdʒɪz ɪn/
VERB
1. Fitting something into a limited space
To manage to fit, accommodate, or insert someone or something into a restricted or crowded space, often with difficulty or by making room.
1.1. Squeezing into a limited space
Used when someone manages to fit an object, activity, or person into an already occupied or restricted space, schedule, or arrangement.
Synonyms
- squeezes in
- crams in
- wedges in
- fits in
- works in
- inserts
- shoves in
Antonyms
- removes
- excludes
- extracts
- ejects
- withdraws
Examples
- She edges in a short workout between her morning meetings.
- He usually edges in a quick swim after work.
- The small car edges in between two larger vehicles.
Related Words
- accommodation
- space
- capacity
- arrangement
- scheduling
- positioning
VERB
2. Gradually entering or joining something
To move gradually or carefully into a place, position, group, or situation, often by finding a small available opening.
2.1. Moving into a crowded position
Used when someone or something gradually moves into an occupied space or position by carefully maneuvering through a narrow opening.
Synonyms
- slips in
- inches in
- sidles in
- squeezes in
- eases in
- wedges in
Antonyms
- moves out
- withdraws
- retreats
- exits
Examples
- The car edges in slowly between the two lanes of traffic.
- She edges in closer to the group to hear the conversation.
Related Words
- maneuvering
- movement
- position
- entry
- crowding
- narrow passage
2.2. Joining a conversation or group
Used when someone gradually or discreetly finds an opportunity to participate in an ongoing conversation, discussion, or group activity.
Synonyms
- cuts in
- interjects
- interposes
- inserts
- chimes in
- works in
Antonyms
- withdraws
- stays silent
- refrains
- excludes
Examples
- He edges in a comment while the others are discussing the proposal.
- She edges in quietly and joins the conversation.
Related Words
- participation
- conversation
- discussion
- interruption
- social interaction
- involvement
VERB
3. Gradually approaching or gaining influence
To advance gradually into a position of influence, control, or competitive advantage, often by making steady progress.
3.1. Gaining market share or competitive position
Used when a company, competitor, or organization gradually gains ground or increases its presence in another's market or competitive territory.
Synonyms
- encroaches
- infiltrates
- penetrates
- intrudes
- advances
- moves in
Antonyms
- withdraws
- retreats
- recedes
- relinquishes
Examples
- The company edges in on its competitors' market share through aggressive pricing.
- Smaller brands gradually edge in as established companies lose their dominance.
Related Words
- market share
- competition
- business expansion
- market penetration
- competitive position
- market presence
VERB
4. Gradually becoming noticeable or present
To begin appearing or becoming noticeable gradually, often as a condition, feeling, or environmental influence develops over time.
4.1. Gradual appearance of feelings or conditions
Used when an emotion, atmosphere, or environmental condition slowly develops and becomes increasingly noticeable.
Synonyms
- creeps in
- sets in
- seeps in
- permeates
- infiltrates
- encroaches
Antonyms
- disappears
- recedes
- subsides
- diminishes
Examples
- Darkness edges in as the sun sets behind the mountains.
- Tension edges in as the discussion becomes more heated.