tip it over

USAGE SUMMARY

"tip it over" is a correct part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to describe the physical action of overturning a container or object. You can use it in any context where that action would make sense. For example: "We had to tip the bucket over to get all the water out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As it came in it turned sideward because of its design and the waves began to tip it over, sending everyone with it.

The Guardian - Arts

I always thought I was going to tip it over".

The New York Times

"It's easy to tip it over, and there are no helmets or restraints.

The New York Times - Sports

He could not tip it over for fear of incurring a free-kick.

The Guardian - Sport

Was he trying to keep the ball in play or, in fact, tip it over?

The Guardian - Sport

(Morris had intended to stand inside the object himself and tip it over, but hurt himself badly in rehearsal).

The Guardian

He twisted his way into the box and then fired towards the roof of the net, forcing Schwarzer to tip it over with on hand.

The Guardian - Sport

Keratin Complex Volumizing Dry Shampoo Lift Powder ($45, keratincomplex.com) It looks like a blush brush, but a fine powder masking roots comes out of this container when you tip it over and give it gentle shake.

The New York Times

In particular, you can't tip it over because it uses gyros to stabilize itself.

TechCrunch

Lee Robinson was able to tip it over but there was no let-up from the hungry Ibrox men.

BBC

It's not impossible, however, and people have been known to fall off a chair or tip it over when making sudden moves in reaction to something going on in the virtual world.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tip it over" in writing, ensure the context provides clarity on what "it" refers to. This prevents ambiguity and enhances reader comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "tip it over" without clearly establishing what "it" refers to. Vague antecedents can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tip it over" functions as a phrasal verb, where 'tip' is the verb and 'over' is the particle. It describes the action of overturning or causing something to fall. Ludwig confirms its correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

16%

Sport

14%

Less common in

Tech

5%

Opinion

3%

Culture

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tip it over" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb that describes the action of overturning or causing something to fall. Ludwig's analysis reveals its frequent use in News & Media and Wiki sources, indicating a broad appeal across various registers. While generally neutral in tone, clarity regarding the object being tipped is crucial for effective communication. Alternatives like "topple it" or "overturn it" can provide more formal options when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

topple it

Focuses on the act of causing something to fall from a standing position; simpler wording.

overturn it

Suggests a complete reversal of position, often with a more forceful implication.

knock it over

Implies an accidental or sudden impact that causes something to fall.

push it over

Indicates applying direct force to make something fall.

upend it

Highlights turning something upside down.

flip it

Suggests a quick, rotational movement causing something to invert.

turn it upside down

More descriptive and less concise than "tip it over".

capsize it

Specifically used for boats or vessels.

cause it to fall

A general way to describe the action, lacking the directness of "tip it over".

send it tumbling

Suggests a more chaotic and uncontrolled fall.

FAQs

How can I use "tip it over" in a sentence?

You can use "tip it over" to describe the action of causing something to overturn or fall. For example, "Be careful not to "tip it over" when you move the vase".

What's a more formal way to say "tip it over"?

While "tip it over" is generally acceptable, you might consider alternatives like "overturn it" or "cause it to fall" in more formal contexts.

Is "tip it over" the same as "knock it over"?

While similar, "knock it over" often implies an accidental or sudden impact, whereas ""tip it over"" can suggest a more deliberate action.

When is it appropriate to use "tip it over" literally versus figuratively?

"Tip it over" is typically used literally to describe physically overturning something. Figurative use is less common but could imply destabilizing a situation or plan, though alternatives may be more suitable in those cases.