go over: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "go over" has a few different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. One meaning of this idiom is to review or examine something in detail. It can refer to reviewing a document, a plan, or any other type of information in order to thoroughly understand or scrutinize it. For example, someone might say "I need to go over these reports before the meeting tomorrow." This indicates their intention to carefully review the reports before the meeting takes place.

Another meaning of the idiom "go over" is to physically cross or pass over something. This can refer to crossing a road, a bridge, or any other physical obstacle. For instance, one might say "Let's go over to the other side of the river to explore." In this case, they are suggesting physically crossing the river to reach the other side.

The idiom "go overboard" is related to the expression "go over" and means to do or say something in an excessive or exaggerated manner. It implies going beyond what is reasonable or necessary. For example, someone might say "He went overboard with the decorations for the party. There were balloons everywhere!" This indicates that the person went to an extreme or exaggerated level with the party decorations.

The idiom "run the rule over" is another related expression to "go over" and means to carefully examine or evaluate something. It is often used in a professional or formal context. For instance, someone might say "I will run the rule over your proposal and provide feedback." This suggests that the person will thoroughly assess the proposal and provide detailed feedback.

The idiom "check through" is also related to "go over" and means to review or inspect something quickly or briefly. It implies a less detailed examination compared to "go over." For example, someone might say "I will check through your document for any spelling errors." This indicates that the person will quickly review the document to identify and correct any spelling mistakes.

The idiom "go over" can also be used informally to mean to exceed or surpass something. It can indicate achieving a higher level or going beyond what is expected or required. For example, someone might say "Your performance on that project really went over my expectations." This implies that the person's performance surpassed what was initially anticipated.

In some contexts, "go over" can mean to visit or spend time at a particular place. It can suggest traveling to or temporarily staying in a specific location. For instance, someone might say "I'm going over to my friend's house for dinner tonight." This indicates their intention to visit their friend's house for the purpose of having dinner together.

The etymology of the idiom "go over" is straightforward. It combines the verb "go" with the preposition "over." The verb "go" has its roots in Old English and is derived from the Germanic word "gān." It originally meant to move or travel in a certain direction. The preposition "over" also has roots in Old English and is derived from the Germanic word "ufar." It generally indicates movement from one side or place to another. The combination of these two words, "go" and "over," creates the idiomatic expression "go over," which is used to convey the various meanings discussed above.

Overall, the idiom "go over" has multiple meanings that relate to reviewing, crossing, surpassing, and visiting. Its origins can be traced back to Old English, and it remains a commonly used expression in contemporary American English. Whether used in a professional or informal setting, this idiom conveys the idea of taking a closer look, physically crossing a boundary, surpassing expectations, or visiting a particular location. Its versatility allows for a wide range of interpretations, making it a valuable addition to the English language.