What are the definitions of “lord it over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Behave in a superior manner.
She loves to LORD IT OVER her employees.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lord it over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lord it over is to behave in a superior or arrogant manner, often towards others who are considered inferior or less powerful. This can include acting bossy, condescending, or showing off one's authority.
What are the different verb forms of “lord it over”?
| Root Verb | lord it over |
| Third Person Singular Present | lords it over |
| Present Participle | lording it over |
| Simple Past | lorded it over |
| Past Participle | lorded it over |
Example
He always tries to lord it over his classmates.
Example
She lords it over her employees, making them feel inferior.
Example
He is lording it over his younger siblings, bossing them around.
Example
The manager lorded it over his staff, making them feel uncomfortable.
Example
He had lorded it over his colleagues for years before he was finally promoted.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lord it 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
“lord it 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
She lorded it over her employees, making them feel inferior.
Example
He lorded it over his classmates, always trying to show off his intelligence.
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
“lord it 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
She lorded it over her employees, making them feel inferior.
Example
He lorded it over his classmates, always trying to show off his intelligence.
Good things to know
Does “lord it over” have an informal or formal tone?
Lord it over is considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'dominate,' 'control,' or 'act superior.'
