bow over

USAGE SUMMARY

"bow over" is correct and usable in written English.
It usually describes an act of bending or leaning over, usually in the direction of something, usually in a gesture of respect. For example, "He bowed over as a sign of respect to the elderly man."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

The graceful leaves bow over the edges and the two-toned coloration provides an elegant display.

The New York Times

The leaves of this fern are rounded buttons and bow over the pot edges with decided grace.

The New York Times

Did you know that the branches of your neighbor's lemon tree that gracefully bow over the public sidewalk is actually public property?

Huffington Post

If you like, you can even tie a decorative knot or bow over your waist for added flair!

WikiHow

'It was as if someone drew a bow over a ripe, richly seasoned cello,' Virginia Woolf wrote of her voice.

The Guardian - Books

But he manifests a thorough sense of ensemble, to the point of turning the final bow over to Mr. Ryan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"For years I was bowed over the desk like some monk bowed over his prie-dieu," he said in his Nobel lecture.

The Guardian - Books

"I don't see him bowing over by any means".

The New York Times - Sports

He remained bowed over the file on his desk, studiously turning the pages.

The New Yorker

When the Queen asks him what he desires, he bows over her hand and murmurs, "Consummation".

The New Yorker

The hurricane denuded the property and killed its signature palm tree that bowed over the water.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bow over", ensure the context clearly indicates whether the action is literal (physical bending) or figurative (showing respect or submission).

Common error

Avoid using "bow over" when a simpler term like "bend" or "lean" suffices. Overusing it in non-figurative contexts can make your writing sound overly formal or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bow over" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often acting as the main verb within a sentence. Ludwig provides examples showing it describing both physical actions (e.g., leaves bowing over edges) and gestures of respect or submission.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bow over" is a grammatically sound verb phrase that finds common usage across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it describes both physical actions and expressions of respect or submission, maintaining a slightly elevated tone. While primarily found in news and media, it's vital to use it judiciously, ensuring the context aligns with its nuanced connotations. Related phrases like "bend over" or "lean over" can serve as more straightforward alternatives depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bend over

Focuses on the physical action of bending, omitting the implication of respect or deference.

bend forward

Highlights the direction of the bending action.

lean over

Emphasizes a leaning posture, lacking the connotation of reverence or submission.

stoop over

Highlights the act of stooping, which can imply age or difficulty in standing upright.

incline oneself

A more formal way of expressing bending, often used in ceremonial contexts.

hunch over

Suggests a rounded back posture, often associated with discomfort or concealment.

dip down

Emphasizes a quick, downward movement.

curve downward

Describes the physical shape created by bending, rather than the action itself.

submit to

Focuses on the act of surrendering or yielding to authority, rather than the physical bending.

yield to

Similar to "submit to", emphasizing compliance or deference.

FAQs

How can I use "bow over" in a sentence?

You can use "bow over" to describe a physical action, like "The tree branches "bow over" the path", or to indicate respect, as in "He "bowed over" her hand as a sign of respect".

What does it mean to "bow over"?

To ""bow over"" can mean to bend the head or body forward, often as a sign of respect, submission, or grief. It can also describe something physically bending downwards.

Are there synonyms for "bow over"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use phrases like "bend over", "lean over", or "stoop over". Consider the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is "bow over" most appropriate?

"Bow over" is suitable when describing a deliberate act of bending, particularly when it carries connotations of respect, burden, or being weighed down. Using simpler alternatives is more appropriate when there's no specific intent to imply these connotations.