What does the phrasal verb “start over” mean?

What are the definitions of “start over”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Begin something again.

  It's a mess- I think we should just START OVER.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb start over is to begin something again, usually because the previous attempt was unsuccessful or unsatisfactory. It can be used in various contexts, such as restarting a project, a relationship, or a new phase in life.

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

Root Verb	start over
Third Person Singular Present	starts over
Present Participle	starting over
Simple Past	started over
Past Participle	started over

Example

If we make a mistake, we can always start over.

Example

She starts over every time she makes a mistake in her painting.

Example

He is starting over with a new job after being laid off.

Example

They started over when they moved to a new city.

Example

After the divorce, she started over and built a new life for herself.

What kind of phrasal verb is “start 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.)

Intransitive verb

“start 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

After failing the test, he decided to start over and study harder.

Example

She started over in a new city after losing her job.

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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

“start 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

After failing the test, he decided to start over and study harder.

Example

She started over in a new city after losing her job.

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

Start over from scratch

To begin something again from the very beginning, without using any previous work or progress.

Example

The cake was ruined, so she had to start over from scratch.

Start over with a clean slate

To begin again without any past mistakes or problems affecting the present situation.

Example

After apologizing, they decided to start over with a clean slate in their friendship.

Start over in life

To begin a new phase in life, often after a significant change or event.

Example

After losing his job, he decided to start over in life and pursue his passion for writing.

Good things to know

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

Start 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, depending on the specific context.

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

Synonyms

• restart
• reset
• reboot
• recommence
• begin again
• do over
• commence anew

Antonyms

• continue
• persist
• maintain
• persevere
• sustain
• carry on
• keep going