Over somebody’s head

usgb
phrase

Difficult for someone to understand because it is too complex.

The lecture about quantum physics was over my head.
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head" - Difficult for someone to understand because it is too complex

Often appears as...

  • go over someone's head
  • fly over someone's head

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Without someone's knowledge or approval, usually to get a decision reversed.

He went over his manager's head and asked the director directly.
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head" - Without someone's knowledge or approval, usually to get a decision reversed

Often appears as...

  • go over someone's head
  • run over someone's head

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Above and beyond someone's reach or power.

Despite his influence, the decision was over his head.
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head" - Above and beyond someone's reach or power

Often appears as...

  • go over someone's head
  • rise above someone's head

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Difficult for someone to understand because it is too complex.

The lecture about quantum physics was over my head.
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head" - Difficult for someone to understand because it is too complex

Often appears as...

  • go over someone's head
  • fly over someone's head

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Without someone's knowledge or approval, usually to get a decision reversed.

He went over his manager's head and asked the director directly.
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head" - Without someone's knowledge or approval, usually to get a decision reversed

Often appears as...

  • go over someone's head
  • run over someone's head

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

Above and beyond someone's reach or power.

Despite his influence, the decision was over his head.
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head" - Above and beyond someone's reach or power

Often appears as...

  • go over someone's head
  • rise above someone's head

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "over somebody’s head"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Intellectual Challenge

Used when something is hard to grasp due to its intellectual level or technical nature.

Illustration for Intellectual Challenge
The chess grandmaster's strategies are completely over my head.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Feeling Lost

Expresses a feeling of being lost or confused by the complexity of a topic.

Illustration for Feeling Lost
This advanced math is over my head; I need a tutor.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtle Nuance

Indicates missing subtle points or nuances in conversation or explanation.

Illustration for Subtle Nuance
The nuances in the poem flew over my head.
Visual representation of the word "Over somebody’s head"

Never forget "Over somebody’s head"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top