What are the definitions of “creep over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Start to have a negative feeling.
Fear CREPT OVER me as I walked through the graveyard.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “creep over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb creep over is to gradually start to have a negative feeling or emotion, such as fear or sadness. This phrasal verb is often used to describe a feeling that slowly takes control of a person.
What are the different verb forms of “creep over”?
| Root Verb | creep over |
| Third Person Singular Present | creeps over |
| Present Participle | creeping over |
| Simple Past | crept over |
| Past Participle | crept 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.
Example
Anxiety is creeping over him as the deadline approaches.
Example
A sense of unease crept over the group as they entered the abandoned building.
Example
The feeling of dread had crept over her during the night.
What kind of phrasal verb is “creep 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
“creep 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
Fear crept over me as I walked through the graveyard.
Example
A feeling of sadness crept over her when she thought about her lost friend.
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
“creep 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
Fear crept over me as I walked through the graveyard.
Example
A feeling of sadness crept over her when she thought about her lost friend.
Good things to know
Does “creep over” have an informal or formal tone?
Creep 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 speech, depending on the specific context.
