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Meaning trap

go over

review carefully

To look at something again, especially to check details or make sure you understand it.

phrasal verbB1common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

review carefully

To look at something again, especially to check details or make sure you understand it.

go over (explain or examine in detail)

Another meaning of 'go over' is 'explain or examine in detail'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

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Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • I need to go over my notes before the exam.study
  • Before giving my presentation, I always go over my main points to make sure I remember everything.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: go over + noun

WrongI need to go over again my answers.

RightI need to go over my answers again.

'Again' goes after the object, not between 'go over' and the object.

Patterngo over + noun

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I shall re-examine my notes prior to the exam.

Natural I'll go over my notes before the exam.

'Go over' is the natural study verb. 'Re-examine prior to' is formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • go over + again
    my notesthe answersit once morethe lines

Don't confuse it

Not the same as 'go across' (move from one side to another) or 'go through' (experience something).

Try it in Daily Speak →