bend over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bend over" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as an idiom to mean "submit to something unpleasant or to be prepared for something unpleasant." It can also mean "to lean forward from the waist," as in a stretching exercise. For example: "The employee was angry about the changes in his contract, but he had no choice but to bend over and accept them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"So you bend over.

The New York Times

I bend over and my vertebrae crackle ominously.

Independent

She couldn't bend over because of the pain.

The New York Times

"We're trying to bend over backward for them".

The New York Times

But I bend over backwards to pretend I'm not.

The New York Times

Tackle edgy topics – but bend over backward for balance.

The New York Times

They really bend over backward to keep me happy.

The Washington Post

"We bend over backward to make clients comfortable," he said.

The Washington Post

Now, bend over and bark.

Forbes

To bend over, however, the alkanethiols needed breathing room.

Science Magazine

That is if they can physically bend over.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bend over" to describe a physical action, ensure the context is clear to avoid misinterpretation. Consider using more specific verbs like "stoop" or "lean" if precision is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "bend over" in formal writing when intending to convey willingness to accommodate. Alternatives like "make concessions" or "go the extra mile" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bend over" primarily functions as a verb phrase, describing an action. Ludwig AI shows examples where it is used literally to describe a physical movement, and idiomatically to convey submission or willingness to accommodate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

42%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bend over" is a versatile expression with both literal and idiomatic meanings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used. Literally, it refers to the physical act of bending forward. Figuratively, it can signify submission, compliance, or extreme willingness to accommodate. While common in news and media and wiki contexts, its formality varies, and it may be best to use alternatives such as "stoop down" or "make concessions" in formal settings to avoid misinterpretations. Using "bend over" correctly requires careful consideration of context and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stoop down

Focuses specifically on the downward motion of the body.

lean over

Suggests a less extreme bending motion, often for a shorter duration.

bow down

Implies a deeper level of respect or submission, beyond a simple physical action.

crouch down

Involves bending the knees and lowering the body closer to the ground.

submit oneself

Emphasizes the act of yielding or surrendering to something.

accede

Highlights agreement or compliance with a request or demand.

yield

Focuses on giving way or relinquishing control.

make concessions

Indicates a willingness to compromise or grant favors.

go the extra mile

Denotes exceeding expectations or putting in additional effort.

oblige

Implies a sense of duty or obligation to fulfill a request.

FAQs

How is the phrase "bend over" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "bend over" can be used literally to describe the act of bending the body forward from the waist, as in "He had to "bend over" to pick up the pen". It can also be used idiomatically to mean submitting to something unpleasant.

What are some alternative phrases I can use instead of "bend over"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "stoop down", "lean over", or "bow down" for physical actions. For idiomatic meanings, consider "submit oneself" or "make concessions".

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "bend over" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "bend over" can sometimes sound informal or even vulgar, depending on the context. In formal writing, it's best to opt for more precise or professional alternatives like "make concessions" or "go the extra mile".

What does it mean when someone says they "bend over backwards" for someone?

To "bend over" backwards means to try very hard to help someone, often to an excessive degree. It implies a willingness to go to great lengths to please or accommodate someone.