1 B1 idiomatic neutral
Of a problem, scandal, or argument: to come to an end without serious consequences.
"I know the rumours are upsetting, but just wait — it'll blow over in a week."
blow over
B1 neutral transitive/intransitive
For a problem, argument, or scandal to come to an end without serious consequences; or for wind to knock something over.
In plain English
For a bad situation to go away or be forgotten after some time; or for wind to push something over.
What does "blow over" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
Of wind: to knock something over by force.
"The old signpost blew over during the storm."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
For wind to blow something over — i.e., to topple it.
Actually means
For a bad situation to go away or be forgotten after some time; or for wind to push something over.
Usage tip
The figurative sense (a problem passing) is extremely common in everyday English. Often used reassuringly: 'Don't worry, it will blow over.' The literal sense (wind knocking something over) is also widely used.
Words that pair with "blow over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
scandal storm argument crisis controversy trouble
How to conjugate "blow over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
blow over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
blows over
he/she/it
Past simple
blew over
yesterday
Past participle
blown over
have + pp
-ing form
blowing over
continuous
Hear "blow over" in the wild
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Other ways to say "blow over"
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