How Do You Spell ACROSS?

Pronunciation: [əkɹˈɒs] (IPA)

The word "across" is spelled with a double "s" but only one "c" because it follows the rule of "short vowels before two consonants." The IPA phonetic transcription for "across" is /əˈkrɑːs/, where the first sound /ə/ represents the schwa sound, the second sound /ˈkr/ represents the consonant cluster "cr," the third sound /ɑː/ represents the long "a" sound, and the final sound /s/ represents the unvoiced "s" sound. Overall, the proper spelling of "across" follows certain phonetic and spelling rules.

ACROSS Meaning and Definition

  1. Across is a preposition and adverb that indicates a movement or position from one side or location to another side or location. It is used to denote the idea of crossing over or traversing a distance or area. As a preposition, it refers to the act of moving or extending from one side to the opposite side of a space, surface, or object. It implies a movement that spans or goes through a specific region or medium, often from one point to another.

    As an adverb, across indicates movement or position that covers, reaches or extends over a certain area in a horizontal, diagonal, or transverse manner. It expresses the notion of going or being on the other side, or in a different direction or location. Across can also signify something that is touching or being distributed throughout a surface or an area, encompassing a wide range or variety. It implies a notion of spanning or extending over a particular distance or range, either literally or metaphorically.

    In addition to spatial meanings, across can also be used metaphorically to denote understanding, agreement, or consensus. It implies a level of comprehension or acceptance of an idea or concept by a group or individual, often indicating a unifying or shared perspective. Furthermore, across can infer a feeling of encountering or coming into contact with someone or something, either physically or metaphorically, particularly when there is an impact or exchange involved.

  2. From side to side; laid over something so as to cross it.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for ACROSS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for ACROSS

Etymology of ACROSS

The word "across" originated from the Old English word "on cros". It can be broken down into two parts: "on" meaning "in" or "into" and "cros" or "cres" meaning "cross". Over time, the pronunciation and spelling changed, and the word eventually became "across" as we know it today.

Idioms with the word ACROSS

  • zoom across The idiom "zoom across" typically means to travel quickly or move swiftly across a particular distance or area. It implies a fast or rapid movement, often with a sense of speed and efficiency.
  • wade across The idiom "wade across" means to cross a body of water by walking through it, typically by trudging through shallow parts. It can also be used metaphorically to refer to overcoming difficulties or challenges with persistence and determination.
  • troop across The idiom "troop across" means to move or travel in a group or in a procession, typically used to describe a large number of people or animals walking together in an ordered manner, often over a long distance.
  • trek across The idiom "trek across" refers to a long, challenging journey or expedition taken across a particular geographic area, often involving harsh or difficult terrain. It implies moving on foot or by other means of travel to reach a specific destination or complete a specific task.
  • travel across The idiom "travel across" typically means to physically move from one location to another, typically over a long distance. It can also be used metaphorically to refer to the act of exploring or experiencing different places, cultures, or ideas.
  • thunder across The idiom "thunder across" typically means to move or pass quickly and loudly, typically with great intensity or force. It often conveys a sense of rapid movement or action, resembling the sound and power of thunder.
  • tear across The idiom "tear across" typically means to move quickly and hurriedly across a place or area. It implies a fast, hasty, or energetic movement, often with a sense of urgency or determination.
  • take across The idiom "take across" typically means to transport someone or something from one place to another, usually across a distance or barrier. It can also refer to guiding or leading someone through a difficult situation or explaining something to them in a way that they understand.
  • skid across The idiom "skid across" refers to the act of moving quickly or sliding forcefully across a surface, often with little control or stability. It can also imply a lack of friction or resistance, making the movement unpredictable or hazardous.
  • send across The idiom "send across" typically means to convey or communicate a message or information, especially to someone who may be in a different location or situation. It implies transferring or transmitting something to another person, whether it is through verbal or written means.
  • run across The idiom "run across" means to encounter or come across someone or something unexpectedly or by chance. It can refer to stumbling upon a person or object while in the process of doing something else.
  • put across The idiom "put across" means to express or communicate an idea, message, or opinion in a clear and effective manner, allowing others to understand or comprehend it easily.
  • push across The idiom "push across" means to forcefully or convincingly communicate or impose an idea, decision, or plan to others, making them understand or accept it. It often involves overcoming resistance, opposition, or disagreement in order to achieve a desired outcome.
  • lean across The idiom "lean across" refers to the action of bending or stretching one's upper body to reach or access something that is out of reach or to interact with someone or something that is physically distant. It implies making an effort to bridge a gap or connect with someone or something.
  • jump across The phrase "jump across" typically means to physically leap over a gap or barrier to reach the other side. However, metaphorically, it can also refer to overcoming obstacles or challenges in life by making a significant effort or taking a bold action to move forward or progress.
  • inch way across The idiom "inch way across" means progressing or moving forward very slowly or cautiously, typically in a challenging or difficult situation. It implies gradual advancement, similar to the movement of an inchworm crossing a surface.
  • go across The idiom "go across" typically means to travel from one place or location to another. It is often used to refer to crossing a distance or traversing a body of water, such as a river or ocean. It can also signify understanding or conveying a message or idea, as in "the meaning of his words didn't go across."
  • glide across The idiom "glide across" refers to the act of moving smoothly and effortlessly across something, often implying gracefulness and ease. This can be applied both in a literal sense, such as gliding across a dance floor, and in a figurative sense, suggesting someone breezes through a task or situation effortlessly.
  • get across The idiom "get across" means to successfully communicate or convey a message or information to someone. It implies that the intended message is understood or comprehended by the listener or recipient.
  • fly across The idiom "fly across" typically means to spread or travel quickly across a place or region. It suggests an idea or information moving rapidly from one place to another, usually through various means of communication or transportation.
  • flow across The idiom "flow across" typically refers to the smooth and continuous movement or transfer of something, such as information, resources, or energy, from one place, person, or situation to another. It implies a seamless and uninhibited progress or diffusion of something.
  • flash across The idiom "flash across" refers to something happening or appearing suddenly and briefly in one's mind or vision. It often describes a quick and fleeting thought, memory, image, or realization that occurs for a brief moment before disappearing.
  • ferry across The idiom "ferry across" means to transport someone or something across a body of water, usually by using a ferry or some other means of transportation. It can also be used figuratively to indicate moving someone or something from one place or situation to another, typically with the assistance or guidance of another person.
  • dash across The idiom "dash across" means to move quickly or hurriedly across a certain space or area. It implies a sense of urgency, speed, or a rapid motion from one point to another.
  • dart across The idiom "dart across" means to move quickly and swiftly from one place to another, typically in a sudden and unpredictable manner. It implies a rapid movement that may be difficult to anticipate or catch.
  • cut across The idiom "cut across" generally means to take a more direct or shorter route to reach a destination or to achieve a goal. It can also refer to disregarding conventional rules, boundaries, or divisions and opting for a more inclusive or unconventional approach. Additionally, it can sometimes describe the act of interrupting or interfering with someone or something.
  • creep across The definition of the idiom "creep across" is to move slowly and quietly in a stealthy manner, usually referring to something or someone crossing a given space without being noticed or causing attention.
  • come across The idiom "come across" means to encounter or find something or someone unexpectedly. It can also refer to how someone's actions, behavior, or words are perceived or understood by others.
  • lean across sm or sth The idiom "lean across someone or something" means to incline or bend the upper body in order to reach or touch someone or something on the other side. It typically implies the physical action of stretching or partially crossing over an object or person in order to access or interact with something.
  • dash across sth The idiom "dash across something" means to quickly and hastily run or move across a particular area or object, typically in order to reach another destination or complete a task. It conveys a sense of urgency and swift movement.
  • skid across sth The idiom "skid across sth" typically refers to the act of moving quickly and smoothly across a surface, often involving a loss of control or a lack of friction. It implies that the movement is sudden, swift, and unstable, potentially resulting in a loss of balance or difficulty in maintaining control.
  • steam across sth The idiom "steam across something" typically means to move quickly or energetically across a certain area or obstacle. This phrase often implies a sense of determination, urgency, or efficiency in tackling a particular task or challenge. It can be used both in literal and figurative contexts.
  • creep across sth The idiom "creep across something" refers to moving slowly and quietly across a surface or area, typically to avoid being noticed or to be inconspicuous. It implies a cautious and stealthy movement, usually with the intention of remaining undetected.
  • thunder across sth The idiom "thunder across something" is an expression used to describe a situation where something or someone moves or travels quickly and forcefully, creating a loud or powerful impact. It often implies a sense of dominance, intensity, or urgency.
  • travel across sth The idiom "travel across something" means to journey from one side or location of something, such as a country, city, or region, to reach the other side or a different location. It refers to physically moving through or traversing an area to reach a specific destination or to explore new places within that area.
  • trek across sth The idiom "trek across something" generally means to embark on a long and challenging journey or to travel across a vast or difficult terrain. It implies a sense of endurance, effort, and perseverance throughout the journey.
  • troop across sm or sth The phrase "troop across (someone or something)" is an idiom that means to move or march in a group across someone or something, typically in an organized and purposeful manner. It can refer to people walking or marching together in a line, often in a military context, or it can describe a group of individuals moving across an area in a deliberate way.
  • dart across sth The idiom "dart across something" means to move quickly and suddenly across an area, typically with agility or stealth, as if propelled by a dart. It implies a swift, purposeful, and often unanticipated movement from one side to another.
  • wade across sth The idiom "wade across something" means to cross a body of water such as a river, stream, or pond by walking through it, typically with the water reaching up to the waist or higher. It can also be used metaphorically to describe overcoming a difficult or challenging situation or problem.
  • zoom across (sth) The idiom "zoom across (sth)" refers to the quick movement or crossing of something, often with great speed or efficiency. It implies the idea of swiftly crossing a distance or completing a task.
  • flow across sth The idiom "flow across something" typically means to move or spread smoothly or continuously across a particular area or object, often referring to liquids or substances. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the seamless movement or transition of ideas, information, or events.
  • guide sm or sth across (sth) The idiom "guide someone or something across (something)" means to lead or direct someone or something safely across a certain path or obstacle, typically by providing assistance or clear instructions. It involves guiding or steering someone or something to avoid potential difficulties or dangers during the journey.
  • inch one's way across sth The idiom "inch one's way across something" refers to a slow and cautious progression across a particular area or obstacle. It implies making gradual, hesitant movements or progress with great care and attention, as if moving forward inch by inch. It can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative, to illustrate a slow, cautious, and deliberate approach towards achieving a goal or overcoming a challenge.
  • ferry sm or sth across sth The idiom "ferry sm or sth across sth" means to transport someone or something from one side or location to another, typically across a body of water or any other obstacle. It implies the act of carrying or moving someone or something smoothly and safely, just like a ferry transporting passengers or goods.
  • flash across sth The idiom "flash across something" means to move or appear swiftly and briefly across a person's mind or vision, typically referring to a sudden thought, memory, or image that quickly comes and goes. It implies a momentary occurrence or a brief glimpse of something.
  • glide across sth The idiom "glide across something" refers to moving smoothly or effortlessly across a surface or through an activity, typically with grace or ease. It implies a graceful or skillful execution, without any apparent effort or struggle.
  • get sm or sth across sth The idiom "get sm or sth across sth" means to effectively communicate or convey something to someone, usually an idea, a message, or information, so that they understand it or perceive it correctly. It implies successfully making something clear or getting the point across to another person or audience.
  • put sth across (to sm) To "put something across (to someone)" means to effectively communicate or convey an idea, belief, or message to someone in a clear and understandable manner. It implies successful transmission of information or convincing someone of your viewpoint.
  • broad across the beam The idiom "broad across the beam" is used to describe someone or something that is large or wide, specifically referring to their physical dimensions. It typically implies that the person or object is overweight or has a wide body.
  • creep across (something) The idiom "creep across (something)" typically means to move slowly and cautiously across a particular area or object, often in a stealthy or inconspicuous manner. It implies a sense of careful progression, usually to avoid being noticed, detected, or causing disturbance.
  • drop across (someone or something) The idiom "drop across (someone or something)" typically refers to unexpectedly encountering or encountering by chance someone or something. It implies happening upon someone or something without prior planning or intention.
  • put (oneself) across The idiom "put (oneself) across" means to express oneself effectively and clearly, especially in terms of communication or presenting information. It refers to the ability to convey one's thoughts, ideas, or emotions in a way that is easily understood and leaves a lasting impact on others.
  • shot across the bow The idiom "shot across the bow" is derived from naval warfare and is used metaphorically to describe a warning or threat issued to someone in order to influence their behavior or actions. It originates from the practice of firing a shot just ahead of an adversary's vessel, sending a clear signal to stop or face further consequences. In a broader sense, a "shot across the bow" can refer to any explicit warning or display of force intended to deter or caution someone.
  • across the way The idiom "across the way" typically refers to a location or object that is directly opposite or on the other side of a specified area. It suggests that something or someone is positioned or situated nearby, but at a distance and within view.
  • be across something To be across something means to be knowledgeable or informed about a particular topic or subject. It suggests that the person has a comprehensive understanding or grasp of the matter at hand. It can also imply being aware of the latest developments or being up to date with relevant information.
  • extend across The idiom "extend across" means to cover or span a distance or area, often referring to something that continues or stretches from one side to the other. It implies the concept of reaching or spreading over a specific range or extent.
  • a shot across the bow The idiom "a shot across the bow" is an expression that refers to a warning or a sign of possible danger or conflict. It originates from naval warfare and is used metaphorically to describe an action, statement, or gesture that is intended to caution or intimidate someone before engaging in a dispute or confrontation. It serves as a symbol of a preliminary threat or an indication that more significant actions may follow.
  • flow across something The idiom "flow across something" refers to the movement or passage of something, usually liquid, over or through a particular surface or area. It typically describes the smooth and continuous motion of a substance, such as water or air, as it moves across a surface or through a specific space. It can also be used figuratively to convey the idea of something or someone spreading or moving effortlessly and continuously across a particular domain or domain.
  • put sm across (in a good way) The idiom "put sm across (in a good way)" means to communicate or express oneself effectively and convincingly, typically with positive results or a favorable impression on others. It implies successfully conveying one's ideas, intentions, or emotions in a manner that is well-understood, relatable, and positively received by the intended audience.
  • come across with something The idiom "come across with something" means to provide or deliver something, often money, in response to a request, demand, or expectation. It implies that someone is meeting an obligation or fulfilling a promise by giving or providing what is required.
  • come across like The idiom "come across like" refers to the way one appears or is perceived by others. It describes the impression or image that one projects during an interaction or situation.
  • rap sm across the knuckles The idiom "rap someone across the knuckles" means to reprimand or criticize someone for their actions or behavior, often in a firm or strict manner, in order to correct them or deter them from repeating the same mistake or bad behavior. It carries the connotation of admonishing someone sharply or disciplining them. The expression is derived from the act of physically hitting someone's knuckles as a form of punishment or correction. However, in its figurative usage, it refers to verbal admonishment rather than physical punishment.
  • go across (something) The idiom "go across something" means to pass or traverse a particular place or surface, typically with a specific purpose or direction in mind. It can refer to physically crossing a road, bridge, or any other obstacle, as well as metaphorically crossing a boundary or moving from one side to another. The context determines the exact meaning and purpose of going across something.
  • lean across someone or something The idiom "lean across someone or something" means to bend one's body, typically at the waist, in order to reach or access something on the other side of a person or object. It implies physically extending oneself to accomplish a task or interact with something beyond the immediate space.
  • a shot across somebody's bows The idiom "a shot across somebody's bows" is a metaphorical expression used to indicate a warning or threat issued to someone as a means of deterrence or to prevent them from taking a certain action. It is derived from naval warfare where a shot fired across an enemy ship's "bows" (front) was a way to signal warning or demand compliance. In a figurative sense, it refers to a preemptive action taken to caution or intimidate someone, often implying that more serious consequences may follow if they proceed with their intended course.
  • dart across something The idiom "dart across something" means to move quickly, typically in a sudden or evasive manner, from one side or point to another. It often implies a swift and decisive movement similar to that of a dart being thrown.
  • get across (something) The idiom "get across (something)" means to successfully convey or communicate information or an idea to someone else in a way that they understand it or grasp its meaning.
  • come across someone or something The idiom "come across someone or something" means to meet or find someone or something by chance or unexpectedly. It can be used when talking about stumbling upon or encountering someone or something unplanned or unsought.
  • scuttle across sth The idiom "scuttle across something" means to move quickly or hurriedly across a certain place, typically with short, quick steps or movements. It implies a sense of urgency or stealthiness in crossing the specified area. The term "scuttle" conveys the idea of moving rapidly or hastily, often with a slightly hunched or hurried posture.
  • cut across sth The idiom "cut across something" typically means to take a more direct or shorter route through a place, rather than following the usual or expected path. It can also metaphorically refer to ignoring or bypassing certain rules, procedures, or hierarchies to achieve a goal more expediently or efficiently.
  • stumble across sb/sth The idiom "stumble across sb/sth" means to unexpectedly and accidentally find or come across someone or something, often by chance or without prior intention or knowledge.
  • rap across the knuckles The idiom "rap across the knuckles" refers to a firm or stern reprimand or punishment given for a mistake, wrongdoing, or violation of rules. It implies a disciplinary action or a warning to someone who has made an error or behaved inappropriately.
  • come across (sb/sth) The idiom "come across (sb/sth)" means to meet or find someone or something unexpectedly or by chance. It can also refer to making a particular impression on someone or being perceived in a certain way.
  • extend across something The idiom "extend across something" means to reach or stretch from one end or side of something to another. It can refer to physical objects, such as a bridge extending across a river, or abstract concepts, like a problem extending across multiple areas or fields.
  • fire a shot across the bow The idiom "fire a shot across the bow" refers to issuing a warning or making an initial show of force to deter or intimidate someone. It originates from naval warfare, where firing a warning shot across the bow of an enemy ship indicated the intention to engage in combat if necessary. In a figurative sense, it means sending a clear message or taking a symbolic action to convey a strong message or a threat.
  • a warning shot across the bows The idiom "a warning shot across the bows" refers to a figurative action or event that is intended to serve as a caution, usually indicating that tougher or more serious measures will follow if certain behavior or actions persist. It originates from naval warfare, where a warning shot would be fired across the bow (front) of an enemy ship, signaling it to stop or face the consequences of being attacked or destroyed.
  • across the pond The idiom "across the pond" refers to the distance between North America and Europe, specifically referring to the Atlantic Ocean. It is commonly used to indicate something or someone originating from or pertaining to the other side of the Atlantic, particularly when discussing differences between the United States and the United Kingdom.
  • extend across sth The idiom "extend across something" means to span or stretch over a certain area, distance, or range, often indicating that something encompasses or covers multiple locations, concepts, or aspects.
  • across country The idiom "across country" refers to traveling or moving from one place to another through fields, forests, or rural areas, typically without following established roads or paths. It suggests a journey or route that is not confined to urban or developed areas.
  • down the road, not across the street The idiom "down the road, not across the street" is a metaphorical expression that is commonly used to discourage someone from attempting to solve their problems or pain by resorting to drastic or self-harming measures. It suggests that instead of finding quick, temporary fixes or engaging in self-destructive behavior, one should focus on finding long-term solutions or seeking help in order to overcome their difficulties.
  • smuggle sm or sth across sth The idiom "smuggle something across something" refers to the act of secretly or illegally transporting or bringing something across a border, barrier, or obstacle, usually in violation of customs or legal regulations. It implies the covert movement of goods or items through an unauthorized manner, often to avoid detection or bypass official checkpoints.
  • jump across something The idiom "jump across something" often refers to overcoming or surpassing a difficult or challenging obstacle or situation. It implies making a leap, either figuratively or literally, to move past a barrier or hurdle to achieve a desired outcome or objective.
  • come across as (someone or something) The idiom "come across as (someone or something)" means to appear or give the impression to others of being a certain way, typically based on one's demeanor, behavior, or communication style. It refers to the way someone is perceived or how they come off to others.
  • come across (with sth) The idiom "come across (with sth)" means to enthusiastically or effectively convey or give something, typically information, ideas, or emotions. It implies successfully communicating or expressing oneself in a way that is impactful or convincing.
  • streak across sth The idiom "streak across something" typically means to move quickly and with great speed across a particular area or surface. It often implies a sense of swift and sudden movement.
  • ferry someone or something across something The idiom "ferry someone or something across something" means to transport or carry someone or something from one side of a body of water or obstacle to the other side by using a ferry or other means of transportation. It implies the act of providing passage for someone or something across a challenging or dangerous area.
  • cut across (something) The idiom "cut across (something)" typically means to take a more direct route or shortcut that intersects or crosses through an area or obstacle. It can also metaphorically refer to disregarding rules, regulations, or conventional methods in order to achieve a goal more quickly or efficiently.
  • smuggle across The idiom "smuggle across" typically refers to the act of illegally transporting or bringing something secretly or covertly across a border, checkpoint, or boundary. It implies evading customs or legal authorities to avoid detection or punishment.
  • glide across something The idiom "glide across something" means to move effortlessly and smoothly across a surface or through a particular situation without any obstacles or difficulties. It implies a graceful and seamless movement.
  • come across sm or sth The idiom "come across someone or something" typically means to encounter or find someone or something unexpectedly or by chance. It often refers to stumbling upon information or stumbling upon a person while searching for something else.
  • tramp across sth The idiom "tramp across something" means to walk or travel across a particular area or surface, often in a rough or heavy manner. It implies a lack of care or consideration for the condition of the surface being walked upon.
  • tramp across The idiom "tramp across" typically refers to walking or traveling across an area in a forceful, heavy, or determined manner. It implies a bold or vigorous manner of moving forward, often disregarding obstacles or difficulties in the process.
  • fire a (warning) shot across sb's bow The idiom "fire a (warning) shot across sb's bow" is a figurative expression meaning to issue a strong, assertive warning to someone to deter or prevent potential conflict or undesired actions. It comes from the idea of firing a literal shot at the front of a ship (the bow) to signal another vessel to change course or to indicate potential hostility. In a broader context, it refers to taking a direct action to inform someone of possible consequences if they continue on their current path.
  • scuttle across The idiom "scuttle across" means to move quickly and hastily, typically in a hunched or hurried manner, as if trying to avoid being seen or noticed.
  • fire a shot across bows To "fire a shot across the bows" is an idiom that originates from naval warfare and means to issue a warning or make a provocative gesture, usually with the intention of deterring or intimidating someone. It refers to the practice of firing a warning shot in front of another ship, just above the waterline, to signal and assert authority, without causing significant damage. In a broader context, the phrase is used figuratively to describe any action taken to convey a warning or show strength before actual confrontation or conflict.
  • run across sb The idiom "run across sb" typically means to encounter or meet someone unexpectedly or by chance.
  • a shot across the/somebody’s bows The idiom "a shot across the bows" refers to a warning or threat given to someone to stop or beware of their actions, usually with the intention of averting a conflict or preventing further escalation. It originates from naval warfare, where a shot fired across another ship's bow was a signal demanding compliance or indicating the intention to engage in combat if the demands were not met. In a broader context, the idiom is used to describe any action or statement intended to caution or dissuade someone from proceeding with a certain course of action.
  • stumble across The idiom "stumble across" means to discover or come across something accidentally or unexpectedly while in the process of doing something else.
  • crawl across (something) The idiom "crawl across (something)" typically means to move slowly, carefully, or laboriously across a surface, often with great difficulty or effort. It implies struggling or experiencing challenges while progressing.
  • come across (as) The idiom "come across (as)" means to appear or be perceived by others in a particular way, often based on their impression of one's behavior, speech, or demeanor. It refers to the impression one leaves on others or the way one is perceived, especially in terms of personality, intentions, or attitude.
  • get across sth The idiom "get across something" means to successfully convey or communicate an idea, message, or information to someone in a way that they understand and comprehend it. It refers to the act of making something understood or getting a point across effectively.
  • a rap across/on/over the knuckles The idiom "a rap across/on/over the knuckles" is used to describe a warning or punishment given to someone for their wrongdoing or to set them straight. It often refers to a mild or symbolic reprimand, typically done to deter or discipline someone from making further mistakes or engaging in improper behavior.
  • rap someone across the knuckles The idiom "rap someone across the knuckles" means to reprimand or scold someone for their actions, often in a stern or punitive manner. It implies delivering a figurative blow or punishment, as if striking the person's knuckles with a ruler or ruler-like object. It can be seen as a form of admonishment or correction to discourage inappropriate behavior and promote adherence to rules or norms.
  • fly across something The idiom "fly across something" can have a literal or figurative meaning depending on the context. Literal meaning: To travel or move quickly across a certain area or distance, usually by flying. For example, "The bird flew across the sky" means that the bird quickly moved from one side of the sky to the other by flying. Figurative meaning: To progress or move swiftly and effortlessly through a task, situation, or problem. It implies smooth and efficient progress with minimal effort or obstacles. For example, "She flew across the project and finished it ahead of schedule" suggests that she completed the project quickly and smoothly, without facing major challenges.
  • fire a shot across sb's/the bows The idiom "fire a shot across somebody's/the bows" means to issue a warning or take action to display one's power or intention to prevent someone from doing something or to deter them from pursuing a particular course of action. It originates from naval warfare, where firing a shot across an enemy ship's bows was used as a signal to halt or face consequences. In a broader sense, the phrase is used to caution or intimidate someone, often to prevent them from acting in a certain way.
  • fly across sth The expression "fly across something" typically means to move quickly or swiftly over a certain area or distance, often referring to a person or object literally flying or soaring across a specific region. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the quick dissemination or spread of information, ideas, or emotions across a particular group, organization, or community.
  • stumble across sm or sth The idiom "stumble across someone or something" means to unexpectedly discover or come across someone or something by chance or accident, often while searching or exploring. It implies a stumble or accidental encounter with something unexpected or unknown.
  • get something across The idiom "get something across" means to successfully communicate or make someone understand a particular idea, message, or point. It implies effectively conveying information or making oneself clear in order to ensure comprehension or agreement.
  • pan across to sm or sth The idiom "pan across to someone or something" refers to the act of moving a camera horizontally or turning one's head to focus on or show someone or something in a particular scene, typically in film or television. It involves a sweeping motion of observation or attention being directed towards a specific target.
  • get someone or something across something The idiom "get someone or something across something" means to successfully communicate or convey someone or something to a specific destination or place, often involving a physical obstacle or barrier. It can also refer to effectively explaining or making someone understand a particular idea, concept, or message.
  • come across like (someone or something) The idiom "come across like (someone or something)" means to give the impression or appear to others in a particular way. It refers to the way someone presents themselves or something is perceived by others.
  • dash across something The idiom "dash across something" means to quickly and hurriedly move or cross something, typically a space or distance, with great speed or urgency.
  • run across sth The idiom "run across something" means to encounter or come across something unexpectedly or by chance. It implies finding or seeing something or someone unexpectedly without actively seeking or looking for them.
  • guide someone or something across (something) The idiom "guide someone or something across (something)" refers to the act of leading, directing, or assisting someone or something in safely traversing a specific area or obstacle. It often implies providing support or expertise to navigate through a difficult or unfamiliar path or situation.
  • crawl across sth The idiom "crawl across sth" typically means to barely manage, struggle, or endure a difficult situation or obstacle with great effort and determination, often to reach an important goal or objective. It conveys the idea of moving forward slowly and strenuously, as if crawling, in order to overcome obstacles.
  • a rap across the knuckles The idiom "a rap across the knuckles" refers to a warning or reprimand given to someone for a mistake or wrongdoing. It implies a mild punishment or admonition intended to correct behavior or prevent further misconduct.
  • across the board The idiom "across the board" refers to something that applies to all individuals or categories in a particular situation or context without exception. It means encompassing or affecting everyone or everything involved, with no exceptions or discrepancies.
  • pan across to The idiom "pan across to" refers to the act of smoothly moving or scanning a camera horizontally or vertically across a scene to capture or show different elements or perspectives within a broader view. It is commonly used in the context of film or photography, indicating the technique of panning the camera to shift focus or explore a wider visual composition.
  • streak across The idiom "streak across" generally refers to something or someone moving quickly or swiftly across a particular area. It often implies speed and a sudden or continuous movement.
  • a shot across the bows The idiom "a shot across the bows" refers to a warning or threat, typically used as a symbolic act to signal a forceful reaction or to deter someone from taking a particular action. It originated from naval warfare, where warships would fire a shot in front of the target ship's bowsprit (the forward protruding part of the ship), intending to intimidate the opponent rather than cause damage. In a figurative sense, it implies a show of strength or a forceful indication of possible consequences to dissuade someone from proceeding further.
  • walk across
  • throw across
  • steam across
  • see across
  • guide across
  • go across to
  • drop across
  • crawl across
  • go across (sth)
  • (give somebody/get) a rap on/over/across the knuckles To receive a reprimand, warning or punishment for wrongdoing or making a mistake.

Similar spelling words for ACROSS

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: