meaning of trip over

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The phrase "tripped over something" often describes a situation where someone accidentally stumbles or falls because of an obstacle. This can be a literal physical obstacle, like a toy left on the floor, or it can be used figuratively to mean encountering an unexpected problem or challenge. It's a phrase that paints a vivid picture of a sudden and unexpected interruption.

• It describes accidentally stumbling or falling due to an obstacle.
• It can also mean facing an unexpected challenge or problem.

What Does "Tripped Over Something" Mean?

When someone says they "tripped over something," they're usually talking about a sudden stumble or fall caused by an obstacle. This could be because of a physical object in their way or a metaphor for a sudden problem they didn't see coming. For instance, someone might say, "I tripped over my shoelaces," if they literally fell because of untied shoes. But the y might also say, "I tripped over a detail in the contract," meaning they found an unexpected issue while reviewing a document.

Let's explore its core meanings and usage:

• It often describes a physical stumble caused by something in one's path.
• The phrase can be used to talk about unexpected challenges in various situations.
• It highlights the surprise element of the stumble or challenge.
• It is commonly used in everyday conversations to describe literal and figurative stumbling blocks.
• Similar phrases include "stumbled upon," "ran into a snag," and "hit a roadblock."

Where Does "Tripped Over Something" Come From?

The phrase "tripped over something" has its roots in the physical act of tripping or stumbling. The word "trip" has been used in the English language since the 14th century, originally meaning "to step lightly" or "to skip." Its meaning evolved to include stumbling or making a misstep, especially because of an obstacle.

Historical Example

"As I was walking through the garden, I tripped over a hidden root and found myself face down in the mud." - Diary of a Victorian Lady, 1865

10 Examples of "Tripped Over Something" in Sentences

To help you understand when to use this phrase, let's look at some examples from different situations:

• One fine day , I tripped over something while exploring the park.
• She was so excited about her new shoes that she didn't notice the toy on the floor and tripped over it.
• Later, gator . I called out after my friend tripped over something on our way out.
• At the party, Sarah tripped over the long cord of the microphone.
• While exploring the attic, he tripped over an old box filled with memories.
• Oh my gosh , did you see how she tripped over something in the middle of the performance?
• During the play, one of the actors tripped over a prop left on the stage.
• She was so engrossed in her book that she tripped over the doorstep.
• A worker tripped over some wires at the construction site, causing a minor accident.
• Tread lightly in that old warehouse; I once tripped over something hidden beneath the dust.

Examples of "Tripped Over Something" in Pop Culture

This phrase also pops up in pop culture and is often used to depict humorous or unexpected situations.

Here are some moments where it made an appearance:

• In the movie "Home Alone," one of the burglars trips over toys set as traps by the young protagonist.
• In an article on LADbible, the author recounts a scene from a TV show where a character named Mr. Blobby tripped over something and fell flat on his face.
• An article about social phobia in University Health News: "Social phobia can be the result of an embarrassing situation in childhood—perhaps you were told off in public or maybe tripped over something and were made a subject of ridicule."

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Tripped Over Something"

Here are some alternative phrases that convey a similar idea:

• Stumbled over
• Got caught on
• Lost balance because of
• Got tripped up by
• Stumbled upon
• Fell due to
• Got tangled with
• Was thrown off by

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Tripped Over Something":

• What does "tripped over something" mean?

"Tripped over something" means that someone accidentally stumbled or lost their balance because of an object or obstacle in their path. It can be used both literally, like tripping over a rock, and figuratively, like tripping over one's words.

• How can I use "tripped over something" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a situation where someone lost their balance or made a mistake. For example: "She tripped over the rug and spilled her coffee" or "He tripped over his words during the presentation.

• Is it a common phrase?

Yes, "tripped over something" is a common phrase used to describe both physical mishaps and metaphorical mistakes or blunders.

• Does it always refer to a physical action?

While it often refers to a physical action, it can also be used figuratively to describe making a mistake or facing an unexpected challenge.

• Can it be humorous?

Yes, depending on the context, "tripped over something" can be used in a humorous way, especially when the trip doesn't result in any harm or serious consequences.

• How is it different from "stumbled upon"?

"Tripped over something" usually refers to an accident or mistake, while "stumbled upon" often means discovering something by chance, without looking for it.

• What's its role in storytelling or movies?

In storytelling or movies, "tripped over something" can be used to introduce a twist, create humor, or show a character's vulnerability or clumsiness.

• Is it used more in casual or formal settings?

"Tripped over something" is more commonly used in casual settings, but it can appear in formal contexts when discussing accidents or unexpected challenges.

• Can it be used metaphorically?

Yes, it can be used metaphorically to describe making a mistake or facing an unexpected obstacle in non-physical situations, like a conversation or a project.

• Does it imply carelessness?

It can imply carelessness, especially if someone trips over something obvious. However, it can also simply indicate an accident or unexpected obstacle.

Final Thoughts About "Tripped Over Something"

The phrase "tripped over something" is a versatile way to describe both literal stumbles and figurative mistakes. It's a relatable expression, as everyone has had moments of tripping, whether physically or metaphorically.

Here's a quick recap:

• It describes both physical mishaps and metaphorical blunders.
• It can be used humorously or seriously, depending on the context.
• The phrase is common in everyday language and can be found in various forms of media.
• It's a reminder that everyone faces obstacles, but it's how we recover that matters.

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English Guide

Help center

What does the phrasal verb “trip over” mean?

What are the definitions of “trip over”.

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

I TRIPPED OVER and hurt my knee.

I TRIPPED OVER the kerb and broke my nose.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “trip over”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb trip over is to fall or stumble, usually because of hitting an obstacle or losing balance. It can refer to falling down or just stumbling without falling.

What are the different verb forms of “trip over”?

Be careful not to trip over the toys on the floor.

She often trips over her own feet when she's not paying attention.

He is always tripping over things in his messy room.

Yesterday, I tripped over a rock while hiking.

He had tripped over the rug and spilled his drink.

What kind of phrasal verb is “trip over”?

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“trip over” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

She tripped over and hurt her ankle.

He tripped over while running.

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“trip over” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “trip over”?

Trip over one's words

To speak in a hesitant or stumbling manner, often due to nervousness or lack of confidence.

During the presentation, he tripped over his words and lost his train of thought.

Trip over oneself

To be overly eager or enthusiastic about something, often to the point of clumsiness or making mistakes.

She was so excited about the opportunity that she tripped over herself trying to impress the boss.

Trip over something

To encounter an unexpected problem or obstacle.

We tripped over a few issues while working on the project, but we managed to resolve them.

Good things to know

Does “trip over” have an informal or formal tone.

Trip over is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “trip over”?

Antonyms for {keyword}.

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Definition of trip verb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• She tripped and fell.
• trip over/on something Someone will trip over that cable.
• I tripped over my own feet and fell down the stairs.
• (figurative) I was tripping over my words in my excitement to tell them the news.
• (figurative) Lawyers were tripping over each other (= competing with each other in a hurried way) to get a piece of the action.
• trip over/up Be careful you don't trip up on the step.
• She tripped on the loose stones.
• One of the boys tripped over and crashed into a tree.
• accidentally
• trip and fall

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• As I passed, he stuck out a leg and tried to trip me up.
• The referee said Morgan was tripped and gave a penalty.
• She said goodbye and tripped off along the road.
• She came tripping lightly down the stairs.
• (figurative) a melody with a light tripping rhythm
• come tripping
• to trip a switch
• Any intruders will trip the alarm.
• [intransitive] (informal) to be under the influence of a drug that makes you hallucinate
• It's not a name that exactly trips off the tongue, is it?

Other results

• round-trip ticket
• trip up | trip somebody up
• a guilt trip
• a trip/walk down memory lane
• roll/slip/trip off the tongue
• slip/roll/trip off the tongue
• a walk/trip down memory lane

Nearby words

English [ edit ]

Verb [ edit ].

trip over ( third-person singular simple present trip overs , present participle trip overing , simple past and past participle trip overed )

• To trip or stumble and almost fall, as a result of bumping into someone or something with one's feet.

Translations [ edit ]

• English lemmas
• English verbs
• English phrasal verbs
• English phrasal verbs formed with "over"
• English multiword terms

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Trip over meaning in English

Learn how to use Trip over correctly with Gymglish. Test and improve your English. Start your free trial today.

• " It's true that his chemicals were well arranged when I entered the room. But by the end of the first day I nearly tripped over a bottle of hydrobromide trying to find the door. "
• " First of all, there's the dead body in the hall - you tripped over it on the way in, remember? "

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Definition of trip

 (Entry 1 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

• peregrination

Examples of trip in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trip.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English trippen , from Anglo-French treper, triper , of Germanic origin; akin to Old English treppan to tread — more at trap

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 3a

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 5

Phrases Containing trip

• business trip
• lay / put a guilt trip on
• on a power trip
• roll / trip off the tongue
• round - trip ticket
• trip - hammer
• trip the light fantastic

Dictionary Entries Near trip

trioxymethylene

Cite this Entry

“Trip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trip. Accessed 28 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of trip.

Kids Definition of trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on trip

Nglish: Translation of trip for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of trip for Arabic Speakers

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verb as in learn

Strongest matches

Strong matches

Weak matches

• stumble upon

verb as in locate

• come across
• happen upon
• lay one's hands on

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Example sentences.

If Romney tries to run or tiptoe away, he will trip over his own flip-flops.

Why would you say to a woman in a wheelchair, “Do people trip over you?”

Dunton has been making an inspection trip over the system with a dozen or so of his New York cronies.

Heggie is almost the only actor we know who can trip over a door sill and keep his performance in two dimensions.

He made his first trip over the road as a wagoner in 1823, going clear through to Baltimore.

The next morning promised fair weather, and after some hesitation, we packed up for the trip over to North Park.

It was a hurried trip over rough streets to catch the train.

Related Words

Words related to trip over are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word trip over . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

verb as in discover, find out

verb as in find

• track/track down

On this page you'll find 63 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to trip over, such as: determine, gain, hear, see, understand, and ascertain.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

This Is The Top Coastal Destination In Europe With Over 125 Pristine Beaches

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

There are 2 main reasons why travelers choose to spend the summer months in Europe: the culture and the beaches.  

And if it's beaches you're interested in, then there's only one place to be.  

Over 125 pristine and sandy beaches with beautiful turquoise waters mean that this beautiful stretch of Spanish coastline should be at the top of your list. 

Why Is The Costa Blanca So Popular?  

The Costa Blanca has recently been revealed by Euroweekly news as the destination with the most Blue Flag beaches in the world.  

The Blue Flag is an iconic symbol and one of the  world's most recognised voluntary awards for beaches and marinas.

Blue flag beach status is awarded to beaches that have clean water, environmental management and good safety services too.  

Blue flag beaches have lifeguards in the summer months as well as first aid provision and access and facilities provided for the physically disabled. So they're worth looking out for!  

And the Costa Blanca boasts a whopping 159 beaches that have been awarded the Blue flag.  

The Best Beaches  

The Costa Blanca coastline is over 200 kilometers (120 mi), and the name Costa Blanca means ‘white coast' because of the beautiful white sand on the beaches.  

The Costa Blanca sits on Spain's Mediterranean coast which explains the stunning turquoise blue color of the water here.  

With over 150 beaches to choose from, it would be impossible to visit them all in one short vacation. But you can't visit the area without spending at least some time on the beach.  

Some of my favorite beaches in the Costa Blanca include: 

Playa La Granadella  

This beach is located close to the bigger resort town of Javea and it is a horseshoe shaped stretch of sand.  

It can get busy during the summer months (and in August, busy turns into crowded), but with intense blue water, dramatic cliffs, and a backdrop of scented pine forest, this is an incredibly pretty Spanish beach.  

Choose Playa La Granadella if you enjoy snorkeling because the seagrass beds here mean it attracts a wonderful abundance of sea life.  

Playa El Altet  

Alicante is the biggest and most popular resort city in the Costa Blanca and Playa El Altet is just 10km away, making it a great choice if you're flying into Alicante Airport. 

This is a huge stretch of unspoiled sand and is part of a nature reserve that is backed by protected dunes. This means there are no bars, restaurants, loud music or other facilities here. Just the most beautiful Spanish beach I've ever seen and wonderfully clear water.  

There's plenty of space, even during the high season. Just make sure you bring plenty of supplies, including water and snacks.  

Playa de Tabarca  

This is a beautiful beach and an adventure rolled into one! Playa de Tabarca is located on the island of Tabarca which is a 5km ferry ride away from Alicante.  

The ferry ride is short but a great opportunity to spend time on the water. There is one small sandy beach here and an abundance of pebbly coves.

If you slip away from the sand then you can often find a patch of pebbles you won't have to share with anyone else!  

What makes the beach here so special is that the waters are a protected marine reserve, meaning that diving and snorkeling are some of the best in Costa Blanca.  

And as an added bonus, the restaurants on the island are great too!  

Why Visit The Costa Blanca  

Away from the incredible beach scene here, there are so many other great reasons to visit the Costa Blanca.  

The biggest city in the region is Alicante which boasts a rich cultural scene.  

Explore the narrow streets and colorful houses of Barrio de la Santa Cruz, the city's Old Town, or explore Castillo de Santa Bárbara which is a medieval castle with incredible coastal views.  

Avoid popular resort towns such as Benidorm, which are so overpopulated with tourists that they no longer offer an authentic Spanish experience, and opt to stay in a smaller village such as Finestrat or the popular El Campello instead.  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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The post This Is The Top Coastal Destination In Europe With Over 125 Pristine Beaches  appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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Meaning of trip – Learner’s Dictionary

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• Details of the president's trip remain shrouded in secrecy .
• They suffered a series of mishaps during the trip.
• I've just been on a trip to France.
• We will have a car at our disposal for the whole trip.
• Talking of holidays , did you hear about Lesley's skiing trip?

trip verb ( FALL )

Trip verb ( make fall ), phrasal verbs.

(Definition of trip from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

Translations of trip

Get a quick, free translation!

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to not know the facts of a situation

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Police officer takes teens on a camping trip to give them a ‘safe place’ over Memorial Day weekend

CHICAGO (WBBM) - The prevalence of gun violence during the Memorial Day weekend in Chicago is a concern every year, but a police program is actively working to change that.

City life is always busy and noisy.

“Anywhere in the city, you always hear sirens,” Mikey Malarski said.

That is why Mikey, 17, and more than a dozen other youngsters got a change of scenery over the weekend.

“I’m kind of nervous. I’ve never been, like, very far from the city,” he said.

Snacks and supplies were loaded into a 15-passenger van as Officer Will Martinez with the Chicago Police Department’s 15th district prepared to drive two hours west.

“All the youth that you see around you, they’re actually involved with different programs at the 15th District,” he said.

Joshua Torres, 17, lives in the Austin community.

“I see a lot of things, you know, that’s dangerous. A lot of shootings, a lot of drive-bys. I try my best to stay safe and be in the house so nothing bad will happen to me,” he said.

Joshua started hanging out at the 15th district police station when he was 7 and has been part of the Officer Explorer Program.

Ten years later, he voluntarily chose to hang out with the officers for a Memorial Day camping outing to feel “more safe.”

“It’s more safe,” he said. “I’m not in danger where something bad is going to happen to me if I step out.”

The Memorial Day weekend unofficially kicks off summer, yet in Chicago, it has also proven to be deadly and violent. It is what prompted the 15th district to start the camp outing four years ago.

“As long as they put in the work in building up their community, I wanted to give them a safe place. So we take them from here, uproot them, give them a safe place. It’s a gated camping ground. They can roam around. It’s more fun for them,” Martinez said.

The trip allows the teens to escape the violence and build bonds.

“I don’t see him as a cop. I see him more like a father figure,” Joshua said.

Martinez said they are all part of the community and are building it up together.

Copyright 2024 WBBM via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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