Phrasal verb
cross over
Meanings
to move from one side of something to the other
to change from one type, group, or area of activity to another and be accepted there
to change sides or switch allegiance in a competition or disagreement
Definition
To cross over means to move from one side, place, or group to another.
To cross over often means to go from one side to the other, such as crossing a street or moving into another area. It can also mean to change from one style, field, or audience to another, especially in music, TV, or sports. The meaning is usually clear from the context: physical movement or a change in category.
Examples
- I waited for the light to change before I cross over.
- You should cross over at the bridge because the current is strong here.
- She managed to cross over from indie films to big studio movies.
- They decided to cross over to the other team after halftime.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse cross over (move from one side or category to another) with cross out (draw a line through something to delete it).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.