Differences between spill out and spill over
Spill out usually means to pour out or overflow from a container, whereas spill over generally means to extend beyond its original boundaries or to affect other areas or people.
Meanings and Definitions: spill out vs spill over
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Spill out
- 1When large numbers of people leave a place at the same time.
The crowd SPILLED OUT onto the streets after the match had ended.
- 2Come or flow out of a box, container, etc.
The container was cracked and the chemicals SPILLED OUT.
- 3Express or display emotions openly.
I let my frustration SPILL OUT.
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: spill out, spill over in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
spill out
Example
The water spilled out of the glass when it tipped over.
Example
When she opens her purse, everything spills out onto the floor.
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 Spill out
To flow over the edge or limit of a container or space.
Example
The bathtub overflowed with bubbles and water, making a mess on the bathroom floor.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Spill over
To have an effect or impact on something or someone.
Example
Her positive attitude influenced her colleagues and made the workplace a more pleasant environment.
To exceed or go beyond the limit or capacity of something.
Example
The demand for the new product overspilled the company's production capacity, causing delays and shortages.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “spill”
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
Differences in spill out vs spill over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: spill out or spill over?
In daily conversation, people use spill over more often than spill out. This is because spill over is used for more abstract concepts such as emotions, effects, and consequences. Spill out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about liquids or objects spilling out of a container. So, while both phrases are used, spill over is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of spill out and spill over
Spill out 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 spill out and spill over
The tone of spill out and spill over can differ based on context. Spill out often carries a negative or neutral tone when related to liquids or objects, while spill over typically has a more positive or negative tone, especially when referring to emotions or effects.
