being run over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being run over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of being struck by a vehicle or similar object, often in a context discussing accidents or injuries. Example: "He was in a serious accident after being run over by a speeding car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"It's like being run over," he said.

The New York Times

[DNAinfo] A Bronx man died after being run over twice.

The New York Times

Not being run over by a scooter when you're on the bike.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It was almost as terrifying as being run over by a train.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But it was too late: Brüll had died, after being run over by a car.

The New Yorker

"We are being run over by a merciless, blind bureaucratic machine".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

I was run over by a car.

The New York Times - Tech

What happens if I'm run over?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

People are run over by cars, buses or taxis.

The New York Times

A protester was run over by a car and died.

The Guardian - Opinion

They could just as easily be run over!

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being run over" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly conveys the sense of being overwhelmed or disregarded, as opposed to a literal physical accident. Consider alternatives like "being steamrolled" or "being trampled" for nuanced meanings.

Common error

Avoid using "being run over" in situations where the level of impact or harm is minimal. The phrase implies a significant negative experience; using it lightly can diminish its impact and sound exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being run over" functions primarily as a passive verb phrase. It describes a state of undergoing an action, where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase often appears in contexts describing accidents or metaphorical situations of being overwhelmed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Science

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being run over" is a common and grammatically correct passive verb phrase used to describe the experience of being negatively impacted, either literally in accidents or metaphorically in situations of being overwhelmed. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, consider the severity of the situation to ensure it accurately reflects the impact. Alternatives like "being steamrolled" or "being trampled" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Avoid overuse in minor situations to maintain its impact. Considering its usage and context ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being overwhelmed

This phrase implies a feeling of being overburdened or overpowered, similar to the impact of "being run over" but lacks the physical implication.

being steamrolled

This alternative suggests being forcefully overtaken or ignored, akin to "being run over" in a metaphorical sense.

being trampled

This implies being crushed or disregarded, similar to the effect of "being run over", often in a chaotic situation.

being bowled over

Suggests being strongly affected or surprised, similar to the impact of "being run over" but can also have a positive connotation.

being bulldozed

This suggests being aggressively pushed aside or disregarded, reflecting the forceful nature of "being run over".

being crushed

Implies being severely suppressed or emotionally hurt, sharing the destructive aspect of "being run over".

being flattened

This alternative conveys the sense of being utterly defeated or diminished, similar to the result of "being run over".

experiencing misfortune

This phrase captures the general sense of encountering adversity, similar to the negative experience of "being run over" but less specific.

suffering a setback

Indicates a hindrance or delay in progress, comparable to the disruptive effect of "being run over" in a broader context.

encountering adversity

This phrase denotes facing challenges or difficulties, akin to the hardship implied by "being run over" but in a more general sense.

FAQs

How can I use "being run over" in a sentence?

You can use "being run over" to describe a literal accident, such as "He suffered serious injuries after being run over by a car". It can also be used metaphorically, like "The small business felt like it was being run over by larger corporations".

What's a less literal alternative to "being run over"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "being overwhelmed", "being steamrolled", or "being trampled" to convey a sense of being overpowered or disregarded without the implication of a physical accident.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "being run over"?

It's best to avoid using "being run over" in situations where the actual impact is minor or insignificant. Overusing it can dilute its meaning and make your writing seem hyperbolic. Consider the gravity of the situation before using it.

Is there a difference between "being run over" and "getting run over"?

Both phrases essentially mean the same thing: to be struck and passed over by a vehicle or object. "Being run over" is slightly more formal, while "getting run over" is more conversational, but the difference in meaning is negligible.