The phrase "overcome by" is a sequence of six sounds, represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /oʊvərkʌm baɪ/. The first syllable is pronounced with the diphthong /oʊ/, as in "oh." The second syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/, followed by the consonant blend /rk/. The final syllable is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ʌ/ and the consonant blend /m b/. Overall, the spelling of "overcome by" accurately reflects its pronunciation in English.
"Overcome by" is a phrase used to describe the state or condition of being overwhelmed, dominated, or consumed by a particular emotion, feeling, situation, or occurrence. It refers to the act of being completely overtaken or controlled by something, often resulting in a struggle to regain control, find a solution, or cope with the impact.
This phrase typically signifies a sense of powerlessness or inability to manage or handle the overwhelming force or effect of something. It can be used to describe a range of experiences, such as being overcome by fear, sadness, grief, anger, or even physical exertion or exhaustion. For instance, one might say they are overcome by fear when faced with a threatening situation, or overcome by grief following the loss of a loved one.
Being overcome by something can also refer to the experience of being overwhelmed or overpowered by external circumstances or events, such as being overcome by a maelstrom of emotions during a difficult conversation, or being overcome by the chaotic nature of a crisis.
Overall, being "overcome by" signifies a state of being overwhelmed or dominated by a particular emotion, circumstance, or force, highlighting the challenges and struggles that can arise when faced with powerful and uncontrollable elements in life.
The word "overcome" has its roots in Middle English and comes from the Old English word "ofercuman", which was a combination of "ofor" (meaning "over" or "across") and "cuman" (meaning "come"). It originally referred to physically crossing or passing over something.
The phrase "overcome by" is not a single word, but rather a combination of the preposition "by" and the verb "overcome". The preposition "by" has Old English origins as well and is derived from the word "bi" or "big" meaning "near" or "by the side of".
When used together, "overcome by" means to be defeated, overwhelmed, or affected by something. The combination emphasizes the idea that the person or subject described has been overpowered or conquered by a particular force, emotion, or situation.