What are the definitions of “brim over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To be filled to the point of overflowing with a particular emotion or feeling.
I was brimming over with excitement.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “brim over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb brim over is to be filled to the point of overflowing with a particular emotion or feeling. It is often used to describe a strong, positive emotion, such as happiness, excitement, or joy.
What are the different verb forms of “brim over”?
| Root Verb | brim over |
| Third Person Singular Present | brims over |
| Present Participle | brimming over |
| Simple Past | brimmed over |
| Past Participle | brimmed over |
Example
Her eyes brimmed over with tears of joy.
Example
He brims over with enthusiasm when talking about his favorite hobby.
Example
She is brimming over with excitement for her upcoming vacation.
Example
The crowd brimmed over with energy at the concert.
Example
Her heart had brimmed over with love for her family.
What kind of phrasal verb is “brim over”?
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
“brim over” 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
The room brimmed over with laughter.
Example
His happiness brimmed over when he saw his friends.
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
“brim over” 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
The room brimmed over with laughter.
Example
His happiness brimmed over when he saw his friends.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “brim over”?
To be extremely confident or self-assured.
Example
The athlete brimmed over with confidence before the competition.
Good things to know
Does “brim over” have an informal or formal tone?
Brim over is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speeches.
