Excessive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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excessive
[ɪkˈsɛsɪv ]
Definitions
amount or degree
Excessive means more than is necessary, normal, or desirable.
Synonyms
extreme, immoderate, over-the-top, unreasonable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| excessive |
Used to describe something that goes beyond what is normal or necessary, especially in a negative sense. Suitable for formal and informal situations.
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| extreme |
Refers to something very severe or intense, often at the highest or most significant level of intensity. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
|
| unreasonable |
Used to describe something that does not make sense or is not fair or rational. Often carries a negative connotation.
|
| over-the-top |
Informal term to describe behavior, actions, or reactions that are more than what is expected or reasonable, often in a dramatic or exaggerated manner. Usually has a slightly negative or humorous connotation.
|
| immoderate |
Typically used in formal contexts or writing to describe something excessive or lacking moderation. Often has a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- The excessive heat made it difficult to stay outside for long.
- She was criticized for her excessive spending on luxury items.
- He was fired for his excessive absenteeism from work.
emotional
Excessive means going beyond the bounds of what is considered appropriate or normal in expressing one's feelings.
Synonyms
extreme, immoderate, intense, overboard.
Examples of usage
- His excessive jealousy led to the end of their relationship.
- She was known for her excessive displays of affection towards her pets.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Excessive behavior can often be a response to stress, where individuals seek more of something to cope.
- Overindulgence can lead to addiction; when the brain gets too much pleasure, it can lose sensitivity and require more.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy often addresses excessive behaviors by focusing on creating balance and moderation.
Health
- Eating excessive amounts of sugar can lead to health issues such as diabetes and heart disease.
- Exercise is important, but excessive workouts without recovery can cause injuries and burnout.
- Mental health experts warn against excessive screen time, which can lead to issues like anxiety and sleep problems.
Pop Culture
- Popular films often explore themes of excess, showcasing characters who indulge in over-the-top lifestyles.
- Reality shows like 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' highlight excessive wealth and its consequences in entertaining ways.
- The phrase 'time is money' can be twisted in pop culture to critique excessive work habits that overshadow personal life.
Environmental Issues
- Excessive consumerism is a key driver of environmental degradation, causing waste and pollution.
- Efforts to combat excessive plastic use have led to global movements promoting recycling and sustainability.
- In agriculture, excessive use of fertilizers can harm soil health and lead to runoff that pollutes waterways.
Origin of 'excessive'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'excessivus,' meaning 'surpassing' or 'going beyond.'
- In Old French, 'excessif' was adopted into English, indicating something that overflows.
- It entered English usage in the early 15th century, initially used in religious and moral contexts.
The word 'excessive' originated from the Latin word 'excessivus', which means 'going beyond'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The concept of excessiveness has been a topic of discussion in philosophy, psychology, and various other fields, exploring the boundaries of moderation and extremes.
See also: excess, excessively, excessiveness.