Expressions with OVER
Expressions using the word “over” are common in English. They can convey many different meanings and are useful to know. In this article, we will look at common expressions with “over” and example sentences showing how they are used.
Expressions with OVER
Over is a very flexible preposition in English. It is used in many idiomatic expressions to convey different meanings. Here are some common expressions using over with their meanings and example sentences:
all over
- Meaning: Finished or ended
- Example: When I arrived, the firework display was all over.
- Meaning: Everywhere; covering the whole surface
- Example: Her dress was embroidered all over with flowers.
all over again
- Meaning: Do something a second time
- Example: Sam spilt coffee on his application form so he had to do it all over again!
bend over backwards
- Meaning: Try very hard to do something
- Example: The sales assistant bent over backwards to try to retain the customer.
cry over spilt milk
- Meaning: Have regrets about something that is done and cannot be changed
- Example: Sometimes I regret not accepting the offer, but it’s no use crying over spilt milk.
get worked up over something
- Meaning: Become emotionally upset or agitated because of something
- Example: Don’t get all worked up over it – we’ll find a solution.
go over like a lead balloon
- Meaning: Fail completely; does not arouse any interest or enthusiasm
- Example: Jack’s proposal went over like a lead balloon.
a hush fell over (someone/a group)
- Meaning: People suddenly become quiet
- Example: As the golf player took his stance, a hush fell over the spectators.
over and above
- Meaning: More than
- Example: The bill was over and above what I expected to pay.
over the hill
- Meaning: Growing old; can no longer perform as well as before
- Example: Gran! You say you’re over the hill, but you’re still a super cook!
over the hump
- Meaning: Past the most difficult or dangerous part of an activity
- Example: It was a difficult year for us all, but we’re over the hump now.
over the moon
- Meaning: Absolutely delighted
- Example: Emily was over the moon when she heard the good news.
over and done with
- Meaning: Something difficult or unpleasant has been accomplished
- Example: I had to announce the bad news, so now that’s over and done with.
over my dead body
- Meaning: Used when someone refuses to allow something
- Example: Mum, can I get by nose pierced? Over my dead body!
over the top (OTT)
- Meaning: Excessive or unsuitable for the occasion
- Example: My colleague’s dramatic outburst was way over the top.
in over your head
- Meaning: Involved in something too difficult
- Example: I agreed to participate and then I realized that I was in over my head.
go over your head
- Meaning: Too difficult to understand or follow
- Example: The teacher’s explanation just went over my head!
head over heels in love
- Meaning: Totally and uncontrollably in love
- Example: Our son has fallen head over heels in love with the new girl in his class!
a roof over your head
- Meaning: A place where you can stay or live
- Example: Bob lost his job but luckily Eva earns enough to keep a roof over their heads
As you can see, “over” is used in many common idiomatic expressions in English. Knowing these expressions can help you understand them when you come across them in conversation or text. Using them appropriately can also help you sound more fluent and native-like when speaking or writing English.
Using Expressions with OVER
Now that we’ve looked at the meaning of various expressions using “over,” let’s look at how we can use them properly in sentences. Using idiomatic expressions correctly is an important part of mastering a language.
Here are some examples of how to use some of the “over” expressions we discussed earlier:
- I was so nervous about my interview, I spent hours preparing. But now that it’s over and done with, I feel relieved.
- John was over the moon when he found out he got the promotion he had been hoping for.
- Mary tends to get worked up over small things, so I wouldn’t take her reaction personally.
- I know you’re disappointed you didn’t get the lead role, but there’s no use crying over spilt milk. Let’s look forward.
- The costs of renovating the house were over and above what we originally budgeted for.
- I could tell by the students’ faces that my lecture was going over their heads. I need to find a way to explain this concept more clearly.
- The celebrity’s behavior was completely over the top. Throwing a tantrum over a minor issue was inappropriate.
- When the star athlete walked into the room, a hush fell over the crowd. Everyone was in awe.
As you can see, using idiomatic expressions appropriately can make your speech and writing more natural and descriptive. Over time and with practice, these expressions will become second nature to you.
Common Mistakes with Expressions Using OVER
Even advanced English learners sometimes misuse idiomatic expressions. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using expressions with “over”:
- Over and done with (not “over and done away with”)
- Bend over backwards (not “bend backwards over”)
- Get worked up over (not “get worked over”)
- Cry over spilt milk (not “cry over split milk”)
- Head over heels (not “heels over head”)
- Over my dead body (not “over my dead”)
- Over the hill (not “over a hill”)
- Over and above (not “above and over”)
The word order and prepositions in idiomatic expressions need to be precise. Mixing them up or using incorrect prepositions can change the meaning entirely. So pay close attention to the way native speakers use these expressions and follow their word-for-word construction. With time and usage, they will become second nature.
Conclusion
In summary, English contains many useful idiomatic expressions using “over.” These expressions allow you to communicate complex ideas in a precise and descriptive manner. By learning common expressions with “over” and their meanings, you can enhance your English vocabulary and understanding. Using them correctly in speech and writing will improve your fluency. Avoiding common mistakes with word order and prepositions will allow you to use these expressions accurately. With practice, these colorful expressions will become a seamless part of your English skillset.