to cross over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to cross over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as describing a physical movement from one side to another or a metaphorical transition between different states or conditions. Example: "After years of hard work, she finally decided to cross over into a new career path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Only Jean tried to cross over".

The New York Times - Books

It's hard to cross over from one to the other".

The New York Times - Tech

"Their ability to cross over is what makes them so compelling".

The New York Times

Didn't that make you want to cross over and become a Vore, even for a second?

The New Yorker

"Woe betide any singer who wants to cross over to modern dance!" said Mr. Keenlyside.

The New York Times - Arts

Can people see it, I wonder, that I'm about to cross over?

The Guardian - Music

"We have to get new registrations, get people to cross over".

The New York Times

"He's a Republican candidate and now I don't feel any need to cross over".

The New York Times

We don't have to cross over, like some artists are doing".

The New York Times

Is Indian art about to cross over?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Patients were given the option to cross-over to the other treatment group.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to cross over" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly indicates the domains or areas being transitioned between. For instance, "to cross over" from marketing to product development.

Common error

Avoid using "to cross over" when a simpler term like "to transition" or "to change" is more direct and appropriate. Overusing metaphorical language can obscure your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to cross over" is as an infinitive verb phrase, often acting as the verb within a sentence or clause. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English, commonly describing movement or transition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to cross over" is a versatile phrase with both literal and metaphorical applications. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is commonly used in News & Media, indicating its wide acceptance. While grammatically straightforward, writers should ensure the context clearly indicates the nature of the transition. The alternative phrases provided offer subtle variations in meaning, allowing for more precise expression. The most authoritative sources that uses the phrase are "The New York Times", "The Guardian", "Huffington Post", "The New Yorker" and "Vice".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to transition

Focuses on the act of changing from one state or condition to another, omitting the physical movement.

to make the leap

Emphasizes a significant change or jump, often implying risk or boldness.

to move across

Highlights physical movement from one side to another, without necessarily implying a change in state.

to go beyond

Suggests exceeding a limit or boundary, either physical or metaphorical.

to traverse

Focuses on the act of traveling across something, often a geographical feature.

to bridge the gap

Implies connecting two separate entities or ideas.

to pass over

Can mean to ignore or disregard, or to physically move over something.

to switch over

Emphasizes a change from one thing to another, often in a technological or electrical context.

to convert

Highlights a transformation or change in form or belief.

to exceed

Focuses on surpassing a certain limit or expectation.

FAQs

What does "to cross over" mean?

The phrase "to cross over" can mean to physically move from one side to another, or it can be used metaphorically to describe a transition or change from one state, field, or genre to another.

How can I use "to cross over" in a sentence?

You can use "to cross over" in various contexts. For example: "The band tried "to cross over" to a mainstream audience with their new album", or "He decided "to cross over" into a different career path".

What are some alternatives to "to cross over"?

You can use alternatives like "to transition", "to make the leap", or "to move across", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "to cross over" metaphorically?

It is appropriate to use "to cross over" metaphorically when describing a significant shift or transition, such as changing careers, genres, or ideologies. Ensure the context makes the metaphorical meaning clear.