blow over: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘blow over’ mean?

The idiom "blow over" means to pass or be forgotten, especially after a period of controversy or conflict.

Idiom Explorer

Unraveling the Origin

The idiom "blow over" is commonly used in the English language. It carries several meanings and has a history that can be traced back to the early 19th century. The idiom is derived from the literal act of something blowing over in the wind, but it has evolved to have metaphorical and figurative meanings.

One interesting thing about the idiom "blow over" is that it is often used to describe a situation or problem that eventually resolves or fades away on its own. This can refer to a temporary event, like a storm, conflict, or controversy, that will eventually pass or lose its significance. In other words, just as the wind blows and things eventually settle down, the situation or problem will dissipate over time.

Additionally, "blow over" can also be used to describe a person's emotional state. In this sense, it means that a person's anger, frustration, or sadness will eventually subside and be replaced by calm or indifference. It's like these emotions will blow away like the wind, leaving behind a sense of peace.

Furthermore, "blow over" can be used in a more literal way to describe the passing of a physical force or effect. For example, it might be used to describe a gust of wind that soon dies down or a storm that gradually moves away from an area. In this context, the idiom reflects the natural phenomenon of wind changing direction or losing strength.

The wind will blow over the fence.

The idiom "blow off" is closely related to "blow over." While "blow over" implies a gradual subsiding or fading away, "blow off" suggests a more sudden and violent cessation of something. It can be used to describe a situation or problem that abruptly ends, often due to external factors or a change in circumstances.

The idiom "dry up and blow away" is also connected to "blow over." While "blow over" suggests that something will eventually pass or fade away, "dry up and blow away" implies a more complete disappearance or cessation. It can be used to describe something that not only ends, but also completely disappears or becomes forgotten.

Another related idiom is "blow out of the water." This phrase is often used to imply a sudden and dramatic defeat or failure. While "blow over" suggests the resolution or fading away of something, "blow out of the water" conveys a more forceful and definitive ending.

Lastly, "blow out of proportions" is a phrase that is also connected to "blow over." While "blow over" suggests that something will eventually resolve or fade away, "blow out of proportions" implies that something has become exaggerated or escalated. It can be used to describe a situation or problem that has been blown out of proportion, often due to exaggeration or misinformation.

The idiom "blow over" has a long history and usage in the English language. It can describe the resolution of a temporary event or problem, the passing of emotional states, and the dissipation of physical forces. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century. The idiom's metaphorical nature reflects the transient nature of life and the belief that all things, good or bad, eventually come to an end.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "blow over" can be used in a sentence are:

  • He got into a minor disagreement with his friend, but it eventually blew over and they reconciled.
  • There was a scandal in the company, but it blew over after a few weeks and everything returned to normal.
  • The controversy surrounding the politician's statement quickly blew over and had no lasting impact on his career.

More "Verbs" idioms