ESL Grammar Guide: How to Use “Overcome” Correctly2025.04.04

Do you often hear or see the word overcome? The verb “overcome” means successfully dealing with a problem, feeling, or difficult situation. It’s usually used when someone faces a challenge and manages to get past it.

✅ Common Uses of “Overcome”

To deal with and control a difficult situation

She overcame her fear of speaking in a business meeting.

He overcame many challenges to succeed in business.

To defeat or overpower someone/something (more formal or literary)

The enemy was overcome by the advancing army.

The town was overcome by the floodwaters.

To be strongly affected by emotion or a physical condition

He was overcome with joy when he heard the news.

She was overcome by heat and had to sit down.

🎯 Useful Expressions with “Overcome”

Overcome with emotion—to feel emotion very strongly

Example: She was overcome with sadness.

Overcome obstacles—to get through problems,

Example: We must overcome many obstacles to succeed.

🗣 Practice Time!

Try to make your own sentences with “overcome”:

Write one sentence about a challenge you overcame.

Write one sentence using “overcome with emotion.”

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