What are the definitions of “be snowed under”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Have too much work.
We're completely SNOWED UNDER at work because it's the end of the tax year.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be snowed under”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be snowed under is to have too much work or be overwhelmed with tasks. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is very busy and has a lot of responsibilities.
What are the different verb forms of “be snowed under”?
| Root Verb | be snowed under |
| Third Person Singular Present | is snowed under |
| Present Participle | being snowed under |
| Simple Past | was/were snowed under |
| Past Participle | been snowed under |
Example
I am snowed under with work this week.
Example
She is snowed under with assignments and exams.
Example
They are being snowed under with project deadlines.
Example
Last month, we were snowed under with client requests.
Example
He has been snowed under with work since he started his new job.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be snowed under”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“be snowed under” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
I am snowed under with work.
Example
She is snowed under with assignments.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“be snowed under” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
I am snowed under with work.
Example
She is snowed under with assignments.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be snowed under”?
Be snowed under with work
To have an excessive amount of work or tasks to complete.
Example
I am snowed under with work and won't be able to attend the party.
Be snowed under with responsibilities
To have too many responsibilities or obligations.
Example
She is snowed under with responsibilities at home and can't focus on her studies.
Be snowed under with requests
To receive an overwhelming number of requests or demands.
Example
Our customer service team is snowed under with requests during the holiday season.
Good things to know
Does “be snowed under” have an informal or formal tone?
Be snowed under is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives such as 'overwhelmed' or 'overburdened' can be used.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “be snowed under”?
Synonyms
- buried
- overwhelmed
- overburdened
- swamped
- overloaded
- bogged down
- inundated
- overrun
Antonyms
- unburdened
- relaxed
- free
- unoccupied
- unencumbered
- untroubled
- at ease
- not busy
