got run over

USAGE SUMMARY

"got run over" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is a phrasal verb, which means it consists of a verb (got) and a particle (run over) that together have a different meaning than the individual words. This phrase is commonly used to describe an incident in which someone or something is hit by a vehicle and injured or killed. It can also be used figuratively to describe someone being overwhelmed or overwhelmed by something. Example: "I was crossing the street when I suddenly got run over by a car. Luckily, I only suffered a few bruises." Example: "The company's profits got run over by the unexpected economic downturn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"His cat got run over," Matt reports.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They made their stand; they got run over anyway.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's like my dog got run over by a car".

The New York Times

He was wandering around Chicago one night and got run over by a trolley car".

The New Yorker

He looked good even when he got run over by a Segway.

The New Yorker

"It would be a tadge unlucky if you got run over," says Jill Waiton.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Make it look like it got ran over!

WikiHow

Danielle gets run over in Enders.

The Guardian

Then immediately gets run over by a bin lorry".

The Guardian - Books

"They bring dogs and they get run over, too".

The New York Times

Cheaters get run over, virtuous folks win the lottery or go to heaven.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and desired tone when using this phrase; in formal contexts, a more euphemistic or less graphic alternative may be preferable.

Common error

Avoid using "got run over" in situations where the context doesn't support the idea of being overwhelmed or defeated. Using it literally when a figurative expression is needed can lead to misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got run over" functions as a phrasal verb, specifically in the passive voice. It describes the action of someone or something being struck and driven over by a vehicle. As Ludwig AI suggests, this can be used both literally and figuratively.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "got run over" is a commonly used expression in English, denoting either a literal traffic accident or a figurative experience of being overwhelmed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Analysis of various sources indicates its frequent appearance in news and media contexts, with occasional use in academic writing. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives may be preferable in certain settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly supports the intended meaning and consider the potential impact on your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was struck by a vehicle

Focuses specifically on the act of being hit by a vehicle, removing the element of being overwhelmed.

was steamrolled

Implies being overpowered or crushed, either literally or figuratively.

was hit by a car

Similar to "was struck by a vehicle" but more specific to cars.

was trampled

Suggests being stepped on or crushed underfoot, either physically or metaphorically.

was crushed

Emphasizes the severity of being overwhelmed or defeated, suggesting a more forceful impact.

was overwhelmed

Shifts the meaning to being emotionally or mentally overcome, losing the physical aspect.

was bowled over

Similar to "was overwhelmed" but also suggests a forceful, unexpected impact.

was overrun

Implies being invaded or swarmed, often by a large number or force.

was defeated

Indicates being beaten or conquered, often in a competitive or metaphorical sense.

was swept away

Suggests being completely taken over or removed, often by a powerful force or emotion.

FAQs

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

You can use "got run over" to describe a literal accident, such as "The cat "got run over" by a car". It can also be used metaphorically, for instance, "Our project "got run over" by budget cuts".

What's a less graphic alternative to "got run over" when describing an accident?

Instead of "got run over", you could say "was struck by a vehicle" or "was involved in an accident with a car" to soften the impact of the statement.

Is it appropriate to use "got run over" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "got run over" might be too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using more neutral phrases like "was overwhelmed" or "was defeated" depending on the intended meaning.

What is the difference between "got run over" and "was steamrolled"?

"Got run over" typically implies a sudden, accidental event, either literally or figuratively. "Was steamrolled" suggests a more forceful, deliberate overpowering.