Overinflated: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that is excessively inflated or filled with more air or importance than it should have, often in a negative sense.

• The overinflated estimates led to disappointment when the actual results came in.
• The overinflated balloon popped with a loud noise.

Describes something that has been made to appear more important or larger than it actually is, often related to prices or claims.

• The prices of houses in the area have become inflated over the years.
• His ego is incredibly inflated after the promotion.

Refers to something that is more than what is necessary or reasonable, can be used in a variety of contexts including time, amount, or behavior.

• The judge ruled that the punishment was excessive for the crime.
• She uses excessive amounts of sugar in her tea.

Used to describe something that has been given too high a value, often in financial contexts or when describing someone's opinion of an object's worth.

• The market analysts think the company's stock is overvalued.
• They overvalued the painting, thinking it was a rare piece.

Generally used in the context of describing something that has been made to seem much more important, impressive, or significant than it actually is, particularly in a negative sense.

• The overinflated prices at the restaurant made it hard to enjoy the meal.
• His overinflated sense of self-worth was off-putting for many.

Commonly used to describe statements or claims that are made to seem larger, more extreme, or more important than they really are. Can be neutral or negative.

• She exaggerated the story to make it more interesting.
• The dangers of the journey were somewhat exaggerated.

Typically used to describe something that has been increased or made to seem more substantial, often artificially. Can be used in both neutral and negative contexts.

• The company's inflated profits raised suspicion among investors.
• The story of his adventures was slightly inflated.

Used when someone deliberately makes something seem more significant than it actually is. Often carries a negative connotation.

• The importance of his contribution was overstated in the report.
• The manager overstated the employee's role in the project.