What are the definitions of “smooth over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To resolve or make less severe.
A State Department rep was already en route to help smooth over any protocol matters.
- 2To resolve or make less severe (differences, conflicts, etc.)
An ability to smooth over differences is so valuable - though of course it's dangerous if it leads to compromises.
- 3To resolve or make less severe a problem or disagreement.
Usually he is asking his brother to have a word with one duke or another, to smooth over some political difference.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “smooth over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb smooth over is to resolve or make a problem, disagreement, or conflict less severe. It is often used when talking about fixing issues or calming tense situations.
What are the different verb forms of “smooth over”?
| Root Verb | smooth over |
| Third Person Singular Present | smooths over |
| Present Participle | smoothing over |
| Simple Past | smoothed over |
| Past Participle | smoothed over |
Example
She tried to smooth over the argument between her friends.
Example
He smooths over any conflicts that arise in the team.
Example
They are smoothing over the issues between the two departments.
Example
She smoothed over the disagreement between her coworkers.
Example
The problem was smoothed over by their manager.
What kind of phrasal verb is “smooth 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.)
Transitive verb
“smooth 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
She smoothed over the disagreement between her coworkers.
Example
He smoothed over the conflict between the two parties.
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
“smooth 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 smoothed over the disagreement between her coworkers.
Example
He smoothed over the conflict between the two parties.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “smooth over”?
Good things to know
Does “smooth over” have an informal or formal tone?
Smooth 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 settings, such as business meetings or diplomatic discussions.
