fall over oneself
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To try so hard or be so eager to do something that you almost get in your own way.
Literal meaning: To stumble over one's own body — physically tripping on oneself from moving too fast.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To be so enthusiastic or eager to do something that one appears clumsy or excessive.
"The moment a famous actor walked in, the staff were falling over themselves to bring him complimentary drinks."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used with a slightly ironic or critical tone, suggesting that someone is being overly eager or obsequious. Commonly followed by an infinitive ('fall over themselves to help'). Usually used in the plural reflexive form 'fall over themselves'.
Commonly used with
to help to please to congratulate to agree to accommodate to impress
Forms
Base
fall over oneself
I/you/we/they
3rd person
falls over oneself
he/she/it
Past simple
fell over oneself
yesterday
Past participle
fallen over oneself
have + pp
-ing form
falling over oneself
continuous
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Synonyms
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