The phrase "blow over" is often spelled as it sounds. The "b" and "l" sounds are represented in the phonetic alphabet as /b/ and /l/ respectively. The "ow" sound is represented as /oʊ/, which is a diphthong that combines the "o" and "w" sounds. The "v" sound is represented as /v/ and the "er" sound at the end is represented as /ər/. Altogether, the word is spelled as /bləʊ ˈəʊvə/. The phrase means to pass or disappear, often referring to a situation or problem.
The phrase "blow over" is an idiomatic expression that can be used in various contexts. Its dictionary definition refers to a situation or event that subsides or diminishes with time.
In its literal sense, "blow over" refers to a strong wind or storm that gradually loses intensity and eventually ceases. However, when used figuratively, it suggests that a particular problem, controversy, or conflict will be resolved or forgotten as time passes. It implies that the issue will eventually become less significant or go away entirely.
The term often denotes temporary or fleeting occurrences, indicating that the situation will not have long-lasting effects. For example, in a social or political context, a scandal or dispute might "blow over" when public attention moves on to other topics, resulting in the issue losing its importance or significance over time.
Furthermore, "blow over" can also refer to someone's emotions or a passionate reaction gradually subsiding. Individuals might experience intense anger or frustration initially, but these emotions will eventually "blow over" as their intensity diminishes with time.
Overall, the term "blow over" encapsulates the idea of something passing or dissipating, whether it is a literal gust of wind or a figurative matter or sentiment that becomes less impactful as time goes by.
The phrase "blow over" has its roots in the early 17th century and is derived from Old English and Middle English origins.
The word "blow" originally referred to a flow of air or wind. In Old English, the verb "blowan" meant "to blow", while its past tense was "bleow". Over time, "blow" began to take on additional meanings related to being affected or influenced by something.
The term "over" also has Old English origins, where it meant "above", "across", or "beyond". In the context of "blow over", it signifies the idea that something has passed or moved beyond a particular place or situation.
The combination of "blow" and "over" in this phrase eventually evolved to express the idea of a temporary situation or issue dispersing or subsiding.