What does the phrasal verb “be snowed under” mean?

What are the definitions of “be snowed under”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Have too much work.

  We're completely SNOWED UNDER at work because it's the end of the tax year.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be snowed under”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be snowed under is to have too much work or be overwhelmed with tasks. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is very busy and has a lot of responsibilities.

What are the different verb forms of “be snowed under”?

Root Verb	be snowed under
Third Person Singular Present	is snowed under
Present Participle	being snowed under
Simple Past	was/were snowed under
Past Participle	been snowed under

Example

I am snowed under with work this week.

Example

She is snowed under with assignments and exams.

Example

They are being snowed under with project deadlines.

Example

Last month, we were snowed under with client requests.

Example

He has been snowed under with work since he started his new job.

What kind of phrasal verb is “be snowed under”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“be snowed under” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

I am snowed under with work.

Example

She is snowed under with assignments.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“be snowed under” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

I am snowed under with work.

Example

She is snowed under with assignments.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be snowed under”?

Be snowed under with work

To have an excessive amount of work or tasks to complete.

Example

I am snowed under with work and won't be able to attend the party.

Be snowed under with responsibilities

To have too many responsibilities or obligations.

Example

She is snowed under with responsibilities at home and can't focus on her studies.

Be snowed under with requests

To receive an overwhelming number of requests or demands.

Example

Our customer service team is snowed under with requests during the holiday season.

Good things to know

Does “be snowed under” have an informal or formal tone?

Be snowed under is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives such as 'overwhelmed' or 'overburdened' can be used.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “be snowed under”?

Synonyms

• overwhelmed
• overburdened
• swamped
• overloaded
• buried
• inundated
• bogged down
• overrun

Antonyms

• unburdened
• relaxed
• free
• unoccupied
• unencumbered
• untroubled
• at ease
• not busy