Lapse into Meaning in English
expression
ˈɫæps/ /ˈɪntu/, /ɪnˈtu/, /ɪntə
LAPS IN-too, in-TOO, IN-tuh
lˈæps/ /ˈɪntʊ
LAPS IN-tu
Definition
To gradually or suddenly fall into a particular state, mood, or way of behaving, often a negative or less desirable one.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for relapsing into old habits, negative states (e.g., 'lapse into silence', 'lapse into depression'). Common with 'a coma', 'despair', 'sleep'. More formal or literary than casual speech. Not usually used for positive states.
Spanish: caer en - recaer enPortuguese (BR): cair em - recair emPortuguese (PT): cair em - recair emChinese (Simplified): 陷入Chinese (Traditional): 陷入Hindi: में पड़ जाना - लौट जानाArabic: ينحدر إلى - يعود إلىBengali: এতে পতিত হওয়াRussian: впасть в - перейти вJapanese: 陥る - 戻るVietnamese: rơi vàoKorean: 빠지다 - 다시 하게 되다Turkish: -e kapılmak - tekrar başlamakUrdu: میں واپس چلے جانا - میں گر جاناIndonesian: jatuh ke dalam - kembali ke
Example Sentences
He often lapses into silence during meetings.
basic
After losing his job, he lapsed into depression.
basic
The country lapsed into chaos after the leader resigned.
basic
Whenever he's tired, he lapses into old habits without noticing.
natural
After a few drinks, he sometimes lapses into speaking his hometown dialect.
natural
The conversation quickly lapsed into awkward silence.
natural