What are the definitions of “wash over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Suddenly experience a strong emotion.
He felt numb as grief WASHED OVER him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wash over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wash over is to suddenly experience a strong emotion. It is often used to describe feelings that are overwhelming or intense.
What are the different verb forms of “wash over”?
| Root Verb | wash over |
| Third Person Singular Present | washes over |
| Present Participle | washing over |
| Simple Past | washed over |
| Past Participle | washed over |
Example
A wave of sadness washed over her when she heard the news.
Example
A sense of relief washes over him when he finishes the exam.
Example
Happiness is washing over her as she celebrates her birthday.
Example
Fear washed over him when he saw the approaching storm.
Example
A feeling of nostalgia washed over her when she visited her childhood home.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wash 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
“wash 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
Excitement washed over her when she won the contest.
Example
Anger washed over him when he found out he was betrayed.
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
“wash 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
Excitement washed over her when she won the contest.
Example
Anger washed over him when he found out he was betrayed.
Good things to know
Does “wash over” have an informal or formal tone?
Wash 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.
