Is there a difference between “introduction to” and “introduction into”?

Question

“Introduction to” seems to be much more common than “introduction into”, but is the latter an acceptable alternative? If it is, is there some difference in meaning, tone, or connotations? I was inclined into thinking that “into” suggests a deeper introduction, going deep inside the topic, but is it just me?

I mean specifically the use of “introduction” to mean an introductory presentation of a topic, such as in “Introduction to Linguistics”.

prepositions

I mean specifically the use of “introduction” to mean an introductory presentation of a topic, such as in “Introduction to Linguistics”.

Erik Kowal · Answer

Introduction into is non-standard in Britain and (as far as I know) most of the US when used in a figurative sense (i.e. in the sense of making acquaintance with).
Of course, one can introduce one physical object into another, or an idea into a conversation or intellectual construct:

Jorge introduced the stick of the firework into the neck of the milk bottle.
Hegel introduced the notion of a dialectical process into philosophical discourse.

Is there a difference between “introduction to” and “introduction into”?

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