get all over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get all over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is spread or applied extensively, often in a messy or overwhelming manner. Example: "After the paint spilled, it got all over the floor and the furniture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But I was in the mood for the kind of pasta alle vongole you get all over Italy, with steamed clams in the shell piled rakishly atop a twirl of spaghetti.

The New York Times - Food

"It's gonna get all over the place!" Chang said.

The New Yorker

Wilmott said, but "itcan get all over yourclothes".

The New York Times

"I certainly don't want to get all over the prince.

The Guardian

"They're going to get all over your case," he warned.

The New York Times

Finally, you can get all over this huge country on trains.

University of California, Berkeley

And it has to drip down your arms and get all over your face.

The New York Times - Food

The ball clearly hit him, and four guys happened to miss it….I'm not going to get all over the umpires about it.

The New York Times

"I had a job as a messenger, and I could get all over the city," Demetrius said, "and so I wrote all over the city".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

If you normally get all-over color, I feel the safer bet is to switch to highlights and lowlights and wait until the first trimester is over before doing any color.

Huffington Post

Nevertheless, on looking at a diorama called "The Buffalo Jump," whose placard read, "The Indians stampede the herd over the cliff to their death," I couldn't help but get all over-analytic and Nation-y by thinking, "Even out on the prairie and operating under his own terms, man oppresses whatever he sees fit to oppress".

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something spreading, consider vivid verbs like "splatter", "smear", or "drip" for more impact.

Common error

Avoid using "get all over" in formal writing where a more precise and professional verb is required. Opt for alternatives like "affect" or "cover" for better clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "get all over" primarily functions as a verb of action or state, describing either the physical spread of something or an act of criticism. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

22%

Lifestyle

8%

Less common in

Sports

8%

Film

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "get all over" is a versatile expression with meanings ranging from physical coverage to critical reprimand. As Ludwig AI states, it is a correct and usable form. Primarily found in news, media, and informal contexts, it's essential to consider the tone and appropriateness when using it in writing. While generally acceptable, more precise language might be preferred in formal settings. Be mindful of potential misinterpretations, especially when describing interactions with people. Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spread all over

Emphasizes the action of something being distributed widely across a surface.

cover completely

Focuses on the completeness of the coverage.

affect entirely

Highlights the total impact or influence on something.

criticize harshly

Indicates a severe form of disapproval or reprimand.

reprimand severely

Similar to "criticize harshly" but with a more formal tone.

be all over someone

Implies being very physically close to someone, often in an unwelcome way.

dominate completely

Focuses on the total control or power exerted.

permeate entirely

Emphasizes the thorough penetration or spread of something.

blanket entirely

Focuses on covering something like a blanket, obscuring what is underneath.

saturate fully

Implies a complete soaking or filling to capacity.

FAQs

How can I use "get all over" in a sentence?

You can use "get all over" to describe something spreading, like "The paint "got all over" the floor". It can also mean to criticize someone severely.

What does "get all over" mean when referring to a person?

When used in reference to a person, "get all over" can mean to be very physically close to someone, often in an unwelcome way, or to criticize someone harshly.

What can I say instead of "get all over" when describing coverage?

Consider alternatives such as "spread all over", "cover completely", or "affect entirely" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "get all over" in formal writing?

In formal writing, it's often better to use more precise language. Instead of "get all over", try "thoroughly affect" or "completely cover".