B1verbemotionspsychology
US/ˌoʊ.vərˈwelm/
UK/ˌəʊ.vəˈwelm/
to affect someone so strongly that they cannot think or cope, or to defeat them completely
In context
The amount of homework can overwhelm students in their first year.
She was overwhelmed by the kindness of the strangers.
The enemy forces overwhelmed the small village in a single night.
Words that go with overwhelm
verb + noun
- overwhelm the systemToo many visitors can overwhelm the system.
- overwhelm the sensesThe smell of spices overwhelmed his senses.
adverb + verb
- completely overwhelmThe news completely overwhelmed her.
- easily overwhelmSmall servers can easily be overwhelmed by traffic spikes.
verb + preposition
- overwhelm someone with informationDon't overwhelm the customers with information.
- be overwhelmed by emotionHe was overwhelmed by emotion at the wedding.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I am overwhelming with work.Correct: I am overwhelmed with work.
Incorrect:
She overwhelmed of joy.Correct: She was overwhelmed with joy.