What are the definitions of “steal over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be gradually overcome by an emotion or feeling.
A feeling of pride STOLE OVER me as I watched.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “steal over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb steal over is to be gradually overcome by an emotion or feeling. It means that a feeling or emotion slowly and subtly takes control of a person. For example, it can be used to describe the feeling of happiness, sadness, or pride that comes over someone.
What are the different verb forms of “steal over”?
| Root Verb | steal over |
| Third Person Singular Present | steals over |
| Present Participle | stealing over |
| Simple Past | stole over |
| Past Participle | stolen over |
Example
A feeling of happiness stole over her when she saw the surprise party.
Example
A sense of calm steals over him when he meditates.
Example
A wave of nostalgia was stealing over her as she looked through the old photos.
Example
A feeling of pride stole over me as I watched my child perform on stage.
Example
A sense of accomplishment had stolen over her after completing the project.
What kind of phrasal verb is “steal 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
“steal 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
A feeling of sadness stole over her.
Example
A sense of peace stole over him as he sat by the lake.
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
“steal 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
A feeling of sadness stole over her.
Example
A sense of peace stole over him as he sat by the lake.
Good things to know
Does “steal over” have an informal or formal tone?
Steal 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 writing or speech, depending on the specific context.
