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Phrasal verbs "wash over" vs "watch over"

Differences between wash over and watch over

Wash over means to be suddenly and strongly affected by a feeling or emotion, while watch over means to guard or protect someone or something.

Meanings and Definitions: wash over vs watch over

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Wash over

  • 1Suddenly experience a strong emotion.

    He felt numb as grief WASHED OVER him.

Watch over

  • 1Keep an eye on something or someone to check that there's no trouble.

    The lecturer WATCHED OVER the students as they did the experiment.

Usage Examples: wash over, watch over in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

wash over

Example

A wave of sadness washed over her when she heard the news.

Example

A sense of relief washes over him when he finishes the exam.

watch over

Example

The lifeguard watches over the swimmers at the beach.

Example

She watches over her younger siblings when their parents are away.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wash over

be flooded with

To be overwhelmed or inundated with a strong emotion or feeling.

Example

As she watched the sunset, a sense of peace and calm flooded over her.

hit like a ton of bricks

To be suddenly and powerfully affected by a situation or emotion.

Example

When she heard the news, it hit her like a ton of bricks and she couldn't stop crying.

come over

To suddenly experience a feeling or emotion.

Example

A sense of nostalgia came over him as he walked through his childhood neighborhood.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Watch over

keep an eye on

To watch or monitor someone or something closely.

Example

Can you keep an eye on my dog while I run to the store?

look after

To take care of or be responsible for someone or something.

Example

She hired a nanny to look after her children while she was at work.

protect from harm

To guard or shield someone or something from danger or harm.

Example

It's important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen and a hat.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “wash”

Phrasal Verbs with “watch”

Differences in wash over vs watch over: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: wash over or watch over?

In daily conversation, people use watch over more often than wash over. This is because watch over is used for more practical purposes such as taking care of children or keeping an eye on a house. Wash over is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about emotions or feelings. So, while both phrases are used, watch over is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of wash over and watch over

Wash over and watch 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 wash over and watch over

The tone of wash over and watch over can differ based on context. Wash over often carries a reflective or emotional tone when related to feelings or experiences, while watch over typically has a protective and responsible tone, especially when referring to caring for others or property.

wash over & watch over: Synonyms and Antonyms

Watch over

Synonyms

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