surmount the fence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "surmount the fence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of overcoming or getting over an obstacle, literally or metaphorically. Example: "In order to reach the other side of the property, we had to surmount the fence that separated the two yards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They jump the fence.

The New York Times

Get off the fence.

The New York Times

It got the fence.

The New York Times

The fence gave way.

The New Yorker

The fence was up.

The New Yorker

The fence gets covered.

The New York Times

Rattled the fence.

The New Yorker

Went right through the fence.

The New York Times

Some are on the fence.

Independent

Again Jack rattled the fence.

The New Yorker

Soil rots the fence posts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "surmount the fence" when you want to convey a sense of overcoming a significant, though perhaps not insurmountable, obstacle. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

Common error

Avoid using "surmount the fence" in very casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "get over" or "climb over" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

"Surmount the fence" functions as a verb phrase where "surmount" is a transitive verb requiring a direct object (the fence). According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. The verb signifies overcoming or rising above, while the noun specifies the object being overcome.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "surmount the fence" is a grammatically sound phrase, though infrequent in everyday language. Ludwig confirms its correctness, suggesting it is suitable for describing the act of overcoming obstacles, either literally or metaphorically. Predominantly found in News & Media and scientific contexts, its register is generally neutral, occasionally tipping towards formality. While not a highly common expression, it offers a vivid way to depict challenge and resolution. For more casual settings, synonyms like "get over" or "climb over" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcome the barrier

Replaces "surmount" with a more common synonym and "fence" with a broader term for an obstacle.

get over the fence

Uses a more informal and direct verb to indicate overcoming the obstacle.

climb over the fence

Specifies the method of overcoming the fence, implying a physical action.

scale the fence

Similar to 'climb', but suggests a more challenging or impressive ascent.

pass over the fence

Emphasizes the action of moving beyond the fence.

clear the fence

Implies successfully avoiding or going over the fence without difficulty.

jump over the fence

Specifies a quick and athletic way of getting over the fence.

break through the fence

Suggests a forceful action to overcome the fence, implying resistance.

bypass the fence

Indicates avoiding the fence altogether rather than directly overcoming it.

transcend the barrier

Uses a more abstract and metaphorical term, suggesting a non-physical overcoming.

FAQs

How can I use "surmount the fence" in a sentence?

You can use "surmount the fence" to describe overcoming a literal barrier, like "The athlete had to surmount the fence to win the race", or a metaphorical one, such as, "She had to surmount the fence of self-doubt to pursue her dreams".

What are some alternatives to "surmount the fence"?

Alternatives include "overcome the barrier", "get over the fence", or "climb over the fence", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "surmount the fence" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "surmount the fence" is suitable for formal writing, although it may sound slightly elevated or literary. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece.

What does it mean to "surmount the fence" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, to "surmount the fence" means to overcome a challenge, obstacle, or difficulty that is preventing you from achieving a goal or reaching a desired outcome.