What does the phrasal verb “mess over” mean?

What are the definitions of “mess over”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Treat someone badly.

  They MESSED her OVER when she applied for the job.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “mess over”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb mess over is to treat someone badly or unfairly. It often refers to situations where someone is not given a fair chance or is treated poorly by others.

What are the different verb forms of “mess over”?

Root Verb	mess over
Third Person Singular Present	messes over
Present Participle	messing over
Simple Past	messed over
Past Participle	messed over

Example

Don't mess him over just because you don't like him.

Example

She always messes people over when they disagree with her.

Example

He is messing her over by not giving her a fair chance.

Example

They messed him over when he tried to join the team.

Example

She felt messed over after the interview.

What kind of phrasal verb is “mess over”?

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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.)

Transitive verb

“mess over” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

He messed her over when she applied for the job.

Example

They messed him over by not giving him a fair chance.

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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

“mess 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

He messed her over when she applied for the job.

Example

They messed him over by not giving him a fair chance.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “mess over”?

Mess someone around

To treat someone unfairly or cause them problems, often by not being honest or by not making a decision.

Example

He's been messing her around for months, and she's tired of it.

Mess something up

To make a mistake or do something badly, causing problems or damage.

Example

I messed up the presentation, and my boss was not happy.

Mess with someone

To bother, annoy, or harass someone, often for no good reason.

Example

Stop messing with him; he's just trying to do his job.

Good things to know

Does “mess over” have an informal or formal tone?

Mess over is an informal phrasal verb that is typically used in casual conversations. It is not appropriate for formal settings or professional communication. In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as 'treat unfairly' or 'mistreat'.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “mess over”?

Synonyms

• mistreat
• exploit
• abuse
• cheat
• treat unfairly
• take advantage of
• manipulate

Antonyms

• respect
• support
• help
• assist
• encourage
• uphold
• treat fairly