Into vs In To
What's the difference?
Usually it's one word, but sometimes "in" and "to" just happen to sit next to each other. Knowing which is which keeps your writing clean.
Quick answer
Use "into" (one word) for movement or change (walk into a room). Use "in to" (two words) when "in" belongs to the verb and "to" is separate (log in to, come in to help).
Compared side by side
(preposition) shows movement toward the inside of something, or a change.
- “She walked into the room.”
- “The caterpillar turned into a butterfly.”
(two words) when "in" is part of the verb and "to" starts a new idea.
- “He came in to say hello.”
- “I logged in to my account.”
How to remember it
If "in" is part of the verb (log in, come in, drop in, give in) and "to" introduces a reason or another verb, keep them separate: "in to."
Frequently asked
How do I know when to use two words?
Check whether "in" belongs to the verb before it. In "log in to your account," "log in" is the verb and "to" starts the next part — so two words. In "jump into the pool," "into" shows movement — one word.
Is it "log into" or "log in to"?
"Log in to" (three words) is the careful choice, because "log in" is the phrasal verb. "Log into" is common informally, but "log in to your account" is more precise.