Differences between carry over and spill over
Carry over means to transfer or continue something from one time or place to another, while spill over means to overflow or spread beyond its boundaries.
Meanings and Definitions: carry over vs spill over
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Carry over
- 1Continue past a certain point.
The meeting CARRIED OVER into the afternoon because there was so much to talk about.
Spill over
- 1When something bad has a wider impact on other people or situations.
The protests and demonstrations have SPILLED OVER into neighbouring states.
- 2Flow over the edge or top of a container.
I forgot to turn the tap off and the water SPILLED OVER.
Usage Examples: carry over, spill over in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
carry over
Example
The meeting carried over into the afternoon.
Example
The discussion carries over to the next day.
spill over
Example
Be careful not to let the soup spill over the edge of the bowl.
Example
When the pot is too full, the water spills over while boiling.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry over
To move or pass something from one place or person to another.
Example
He decided to transfer his savings to a high-interest account to earn more money.
To keep doing something without stopping or interrupting it.
Example
She had to continue working on the project over the weekend to meet the deadline.
To make something longer in time or space.
Example
The company decided to extend the sale for another week due to popular demand.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Spill over
To exceed the limits or capacity of something and flow over its edges.
Example
The river overflowed its banks and flooded the nearby town.
To extend or expand beyond its original boundaries or location.
Example
The protests spread to other cities and countries, demanding social justice and equality.
To increase or intensify rapidly, often leading to a crisis or conflict.
Example
The argument between the two coworkers escalated into a physical fight, causing chaos in the office.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “carry”
- carry on
- carry off
- carry through
- carry out
- carry on with
Phrasal Verbs with “spill”
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
Differences in carry over vs spill over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: carry over or spill over?
In daily conversation, people use carry over more often than spill over. This is because carry over is used in various contexts such as work, finance, and sports. Spill over is less common and mainly used in situations where something exceeds its limits or boundaries.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry over and spill over
Carry over and spill over are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of carry over and spill over
The tone of carry over and spill over can differ based on context. Carry over often carries a positive or neutral tone when referring to transferring or continuing something, while spill over typically has a negative or chaotic tone, especially when referring to something that exceeds its limits or boundaries.
