Overbuilt: meaning, definitions and examples

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overbuilt

 

[ ˌoʊvərˈbɪlt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

construction excess

Overbuilt refers to a situation where a structure, system, or area has been constructed with more resources, materials, or features than necessary. This often leads to increased costs, inefficient use of space, and potentially unnecessary complexity. In real estate, overbuilt properties may struggle to attract buyers or renters because they exceed the demand for their features. The term can also apply to urban planning and infrastructure, where excessive development may lead to issues such as congestion and resource wastage.

Synonyms

excessively constructed, overdeveloped, overengineered.

Examples of usage

  • The overbuilt shopping mall saw declining foot traffic.
  • Many cities suffer from overbuilt downtown areas with too many skyscrapers.
  • An overbuilt housing market can lead to economic downturns.

Translations

Translations of the word "overbuilt" in other languages:

🇵🇹 construído em excesso

🇮🇳 अधिक निर्माण किया गया

🇩🇪 überdimensioniert

🇮🇩 dibangun berlebihan

🇺🇦 перебудований

🇵🇱 przerobiony

🇯🇵 過剰建設された

🇫🇷 surconstruit

🇪🇸 sobredimensionado

🇹🇷 aşırı inşa edilmiş

🇰🇷 과도하게 건설된

🇸🇦 مبني بشكل مفرط

🇨🇿 přestavěný

🇸🇰 prebudovaný

🇨🇳 过度建设的

🇸🇮 prekomerno zgrajen

🇮🇸 of byggt

🇰🇿 артық құрылған

🇬🇪 გადაჭარბებული აშენებული

🇦🇿 həddindən artıq tikilmiş

🇲🇽 sobredimensionado

Etymology

The term 'overbuilt' is derived from the prefix 'over-' which indicates excessiveness or a higher level than normal, combined with the verb 'build', which originates from Old English 'byldan', meaning to construct or create. The increasing industrialization throughout the 19th and 20th centuries led to the more frequent use of the term, particularly in contexts relating to architecture and urban development. As cities expanded and construction technologies advanced, conversations around the efficiency and practicality of building practices became more prevalent. By the late 20th century, the term began to find its place in discussions about sustainable development and housing markets, as developers and planners assessed the implications of excessive construction. Today, 'overbuilt' is commonly used in real estate and urban planning discussions, highlighting the balance between development and demand.