throw in

add something extra for free when selling something

B2

What does "throw sth in" mean?

To 'throw in' something means to include it as a free extra when you are selling or buying something. The idea is that the seller adds something on top of the main purchase — not because they have to, but as a generous incentive or sweetener to close a deal. You'll hear it constantly in retail shops, car dealerships, online stores, and any situation where someone is negotiating a price. What makes this phrasal verb distinctive is that the 'free' element is already built into the meaning — the extra item is always a bonus, not something you've paid for. It also carries a slightly informal, persuasive tone, which is why it's so common in sales language.

Examples

How to use it

throw in + object

The most common pattern, where the extra item follows the particle — used with longer noun phrases that would sound awkward if split.

If you sign up today, they'll throw in a free one-year subscription.

throw + object + in

Used when the object is a short noun phrase; splitting the verb and particle this way is very natural and frequent.

The dealer threw a tank of petrol in to help close the deal.

throw + pronoun + in

When using a pronoun to refer to the extra item, it must go between 'throw' and 'in' — placing it after 'in' is incorrect.

We've got some screen protectors left — we'll throw them in at no extra cost.

be thrown in

The passive is used when the focus is on the extra item itself rather than on who is offering it.

A carrying case was thrown in when she bought the camera.

throw in + object + for free

Adding 'for free' is very common in commercial contexts, even though the free element is already implied by the phrasal verb itself.

Order before midnight and we'll throw in free delivery for free — just our way of saying thanks.

Common Collocations

free deliverya warrantya chargerfree installationa carrying casesome extras

Common Mistakes

Pronoun placed after the particle

When the object is a pronoun, it must come between 'throw' and 'in', never after 'in'. This rule is fixed and not optional.

✗ They said they'd throw in it if I bought two.
✓ They said they'd throw it in if I bought two.
Confusing with 'add in'

'Add in' simply means to include something and is neutral in tone. 'Throw in' specifically implies the extra item is free or given as a bonus incentive — it's not interchangeable when that sense of generosity or a free deal is present.

✗ They added in a free charger to make the deal more attractive.
✓ They threw in a free charger to make the deal more attractive.
Using the wrong sense

'Throw in' has other meanings — for example, adding a remark in conversation, or giving up (as in 'throw in the towel'). In retail and sales contexts, it always means including something extra for free, so make sure the context involves a transaction and a bonus item.

Usage

This phrasal verb is neutral in register and works in both spoken sales conversations and written promotions. It strongly implies the extra item is free, so adding 'for free' is common but not essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does 'throw in' always mean the extra item is free?

Yes — the free element is central to this meaning. When a seller 'throws something in', it is always understood to be a bonus at no extra cost. This is why adding 'for free' is common but technically redundant; the phrase already implies it.

Can I use 'throw in' outside of shopping or sales contexts?

Yes, it can be used more generally to mean 'include something as an extra', even in non-commercial situations. For example, 'I'll cook the main course and throw in dessert as well' works naturally. The sense of generosity — giving something extra — still applies.

Can 'throw in' be used in the passive?

Yes, the passive is possible and occasionally used, especially when the focus is on the extra item rather than the seller. For example, 'A free warranty was thrown in when I bought the phone' is natural and correct.

Is 'throw in' used in written English, or is it just spoken?

It works in both. You'll find it in spoken sales conversations and negotiations, but also in written adverts, product listings, and promotional emails. It has a slightly informal and persuasive feel, which makes it very popular in marketing language.

What kinds of things are typically 'thrown in'?

Usually accessories, services, or extras that complement the main purchase — things like a free case, charger, warranty, delivery, gift, or trial subscription. The key is that the item is recognisably a bonus on top of whatever is being bought or sold.

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