Above and over: position and movement

The idea

Use above or over for many higher positions. Use over for movement across something or for covering it.

Examples

• A lamp hangs above the table.
• The village is above the lake.
• A plane flew over the island.
• The cat jumped over the wall.
• Mina put a blanket over the sleeping child.
• The clock is over the door.

Watch out

Do not assume the words always mean the same thing: a blanket over a child covers the child.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the answer. A picture hangs ___ the sofa. Choose both words that can describe its position. (above / over)

   Show answer or example answer

   above / over

   above and over both describe the picture’s higher position.

2. Choose the answer. The cyclist rode ___ the bridge from one side to the other. (above / over)

   Show answer or example answer

   over

   over shows the cyclist crossing the bridge.

3. Choose the answer. Put a lid ___ the pot to cover it. (above / over)

   Show answer or example answer

   over

   over puts the lid across the top of the pot.

Use it today

Describe an object higher than another and a movement across an obstacle.