Badger Someone Into Doing vs. Badger Someone To Do
Cambridge directly documents both badger + object + into + -ing and badger + object + to-infinitive for repeated pressure or requests that push someone toward an action. The verb also covers repeated questioning, so context must show whether the sentence is about persistent persuasion or interrogation rather than assuming every use names a requested action.
Both are documented: “badger someone into doing something” and “badger someone to do something” can name the pressured action.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Construction | Meaning | Use |
|---|---|---|
| badger + person + into + -ing | persistent pressure results in the action | emphasizes being pushed into doing it |
| badger + person + to-infinitive | persistent requests/pressure for the action | also directly documented |
| badger + person with questions | repeated questioning | not necessarily a requested action |
Quick tests
Pressure-pattern test
Does the sentence mean repeated pressure or requests aimed at making a person act?
If yes: Either documented action pattern may work; choose the form that fits the sentence rhythm and intended emphasis.
If no: If the use is repeated questioning rather than pressure toward an action, do not force either action complement.
Caveat: Both action constructions are documented, so the page should not invent a false right-versus-wrong contrast.
Examples
They badgered him into signing the form.
The “into + -ing” pattern presents the action as the result of persistent pressure.
They badgered him to sign the form.
The to-infinitive action pattern is also documented.
Reporters badgered her with questions.
This is repeated questioning, showing that not every use of “badger” names a requested action.
Further guidance
Boundary
The verb also covers repeated questioning, so context must show whether the sentence is about persistent persuasion or interrogation rather than assuming every use names a requested action.
Construction
Cambridge directly documents both badger + object + into + -ing and badger + object + to-infinitive for repeated pressure or requests that push someone toward an action.
Decision
Both are documented: “badger someone into doing something” and “badger someone to do something” can name the pressured action.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- badger — Cambridge English Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Badger + object + into + -ing and object + to-infinitive constructions