Overexpand: meaning, definitions and examples
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overexpand
[ ˌoʊvərɪkˈspænd ]
business growth
To overexpand means to grow or expand too quickly or excessively, often leading to difficulties in managing operations or finances. This can occur when a company invests too heavily in facilities, staff, or product lines without a sustainable demand.
Synonyms
overextend, overscale, overstretch.
Examples of usage
- The startup decided to overexpand by opening multiple locations too quickly.
- Many companies fail because they overexpand before solidifying their core market.
- After the initial success, the chain chose to overexpand, resulting in financial strain.
Etymology
The term 'overexpand' combines the prefix 'over-' meaning 'too much' or 'excessively' with 'expand,' which has roots in the Latin word 'expandere,' meaning 'to spread out' or 'to open up.' The prefix emphasizes the excessiveness of the action, indicating not just growth, but growth that is beyond what is manageable or advisable. 'Expand' itself has been used in the English language since the late 14th century, originally connoting a physical opening or spreading out. Over the centuries, the notion of expansion has taken on broader meanings, particularly in business and economics, where it often denotes not just physical components but also market share and influence. The combination of these elements has allowed the term 'overexpand' to emerge as a relevant concept in discussions of business strategy and operational management, especially in the context of scaling operations.