Phrasal verbs "creep over" vs "hold over"

Differences between creep over and hold over

Creep over means to move slowly and quietly towards someone or something, often in a way that is intended to be unnoticed. Hold over means to continue or postpone something beyond its original time or date.

Meanings and Definitions: creep over vs hold over

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Creep over

  • 1Start to have a negative feeling.

    Fear CREPT OVER me as I walked through the graveyard.

Hold over

  • 1Delay.

    The meeting has been HELD OVER till Friday.

  • 2To continue something for longer than planned.

    It has been so successful that they have HELD it OVER for another fortnight.

Usage Examples: creep over, hold over in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

creep over

Example

Fear crept over me as I walked through the dark forest.

Example

A feeling of sadness creeps over her when she thinks about her lost friend.

hold over

Example

They decided to hold over the event due to bad weather.

Example

She holds over the meeting until everyone arrives.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Creep over

sneak up on

To approach someone or something quietly and unexpectedly.

Example

The cat tried to sneak up on the bird, but it flew away just in time.

To pass by unnoticed or without attracting attention.

Example

The deadline slipped by without him realizing it, and he missed his chance to apply for the job.

inch towards

To move slowly and gradually towards someone or something.

Example

The turtle inched towards the pond, taking its time to enjoy the sun and the grass.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold over

To make something last longer than originally planned or scheduled.

Example

The company decided to extend the project deadline by two weeks to allow for more testing and feedback.

To delay or reschedule something to a later time or date.

Example

The meeting was postponed until next week due to unexpected circumstances.

To keep something going or in progress beyond its original time or date.

Example

The trend of remote work is expected to continue even after the pandemic is over.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in creep over vs hold over: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: creep over or hold over?

In everyday conversation, people use hold over more often than creep over. This is because hold over is used for various situations such as extending a deadline, postponing a meeting, or continuing a trend. Creep over is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about someone or something moving slowly and quietly. So, while both phrases are used, hold over is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of creep over and hold over

Creep over and hold 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 creep over and hold over

The tone of creep over and hold over can differ based on context. Creep over often carries a negative or suspicious tone when related to someone or something moving slowly and quietly, while hold over typically has a neutral or practical tone, especially when referring to extending or postponing something.

creep over & hold over: Synonyms and Antonyms

Creep over

Synonyms

  • sneak up
  • gradually affect
  • slowly take control
  • spread over
  • come upon

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