What are the definitions of “keel over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Turn upside down.
The boat KEELED OVER in the storm and the crew drowned.
- 2Surrender, give in.
He was going to confront his boss, but KEELED OVER and didn't mention the matter.
- 3Fall to the ground.
The drunk KEELED OVER when trying to leave the pub.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “keel over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb keel over is to fall to the ground, usually suddenly or unexpectedly. This can happen to a person, an object, or even an animal.
What are the different verb forms of “keel over”?
| Root Verb | keel over |
| Third Person Singular Present | keels over |
| Present Participle | keeling over |
| Simple Past | keeled over |
| Past Participle | keeled over |
Example
The old tree keeled over during the storm.
Example
He keels over whenever he sees a spider.
Example
The man was keeling over from exhaustion after the race.
Example
She keeled over when she heard the shocking news.
Example
The chair had keeled over when no one was looking.
What kind of phrasal verb is “keel 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
“keel 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 drunk keeled over when trying to leave the pub.
Example
The boat keeled over in the storm and the crew drowned.
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
“keel 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 drunk keeled over when trying to leave the pub.
Example
The boat keeled over in the storm and the crew drowned.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “keel over”?
To collapse or fall down due to extreme tiredness or fatigue.
Example
After running the marathon, he keeled over from exhaustion.
Good things to know
Does “keel over” have an informal or formal tone?
Keel over is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.
