bowed over

USAGE SUMMARY

'bowed over' is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe a posture that has a bending forward motion, and can be used both literally and figuratively. Example sentence: By the end of the 10K race, I was completely bowed over, exhausted from the exertion.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

No longer mute figures moving across distant landscapes, or diligently bowed over ploughed fields, they still have plenty to say.

The Economist

Thus he has admitted his guilt, bowed over and humbled by the horror of what he has done.

The New York Times

Like a convert, I embraced the rituals, spending hours under the soft amber lights, holding beakers like chalices, head bowed over trays in worshipful anticipation.

The New York Times

"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

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

The New Yorker

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

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

"People weren't bowing over and saying, 'Well, here you go, Mr. Kaiser.' " His entry into the aluminum business in 1946, however, was almost clear sailing.

Los Angeles 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

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

The New York Times - Sports

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

The New Yorker

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

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bowed over" to vividly describe a posture of physical submission, intense focus, or deep contemplation. This phrase adds depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "bowed over" when a simpler term like "bent" or "leaned" would suffice. Overusing the figurative sense can weaken your prose and sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

Bowed over functions as a compound verb phrase, typically describing a physical action or state of being. Ludwig examples show its use in depicting posture (e.g., "heads bowed over equipment") or emotional states (e.g., "humbled by the horror").

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Bowed over is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a bending forward posture, often signifying submission, contemplation, or intense focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile in both literal and figurative contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, this phrase adds depth and imagery to writing, effectively conveying physical and emotional states. However, avoid overuse to maintain impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bent over

Focuses more on the physical act of bending, lacking the nuance of emotional weight or absorption.

hunched over

Emphasizes a posture of being rounded or curved, often suggesting discomfort or age.

stooped over

Implies a forward bending posture, typically due to age or fatigue.

leaning over

Describes a less extreme angle of bending, suggesting a temporary or casual position.

absorbed in

Shifts the focus to mental engagement, removing the physical aspect of bending.

engrossed in

Similar to 'absorbed in', this emphasizes mental focus rather than physical posture.

submissive to

Highlights the act of yielding or surrendering, relating to bowing in a figurative sense.

humbled by

Refers to a state of being made modest or respectful, often involving a metaphorical bow.

contemplating

Highlights thoughtfulness or pondering, often with a bowed head.

reflecting on

Similar to contemplating, this focuses on deep thinking and consideration.

FAQs

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

You can use "bowed over" to describe someone physically bending downwards, like "He was bowed over with exhaustion". It can also describe a state of being overwhelmed or burdened, such as "She was bowed over by grief".

What does "bowed over" mean?

"Bowed over" describes a physical posture where someone bends their body forward and downward. Figuratively, it can describe a state of being overwhelmed by something.

What are some synonyms for "bowed over"?

Alternatives to "bowed over" include "bent over", "hunched over", or "stooped over", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "bowed over"?

Yes, "bowed over" is a perfectly acceptable and grammatically correct phrase in English. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a bending forward posture, both literally and figuratively.