Overkill: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when describing something excessive to the point of being ridiculous or unnecessary. It often carries a negative connotation.

• Bringing ten bodyguards to a small meeting is overkill.
• Adding three kinds of cheese to the pizza was overkill.

This word is used to describe using something too much, often leading to wear and tear or loss of effectiveness. It carries a negative connotation.

• Overuse of antibiotics can lead to resistance.
• The overuse of jargon in his speech made it hard to understand.

This term refers to more than what is necessary or proper. It can be used in various situations like finance, lifestyle, and behaviors, and can carry a slightly negative connotation.

• The excess of spending led to a financial crisis.
• He indulged in excess during the holidays.

This word describes having too much of something, usually in a way that causes some form of negative impact or inconvenience.

• There was an overabundance of food at the banquet.
• The overabundance of information on the topic made it difficult to form a clear opinion.

Used to describe a situation where more effort or resources are used than necessary, often implying negative consequences or unnecessary actions.

• Installing three locks on a single door is overkill
• Bringing ten different desserts to a small dinner party might be considered overkill

Used to discuss general situations where there is more of something than needed, usually in a somewhat formal or neutral tone.

• The excessiveness of his spending habits worried his friends
• There was an excessiveness in the amount of detail provided in the report

Commonly used when someone puts too much effort into an activity, often leading to negative outcomes. This term is often used in casual or conversational contexts.

• She was overdoing her workout routine and ended up injuring herself
• You're overdoing it with the decorations; a simpler setup would look better

A more formal term used to describe something that is more than necessary or needed, often used in literature or more sophisticated discussions.

• The superfluity of options on the menu made it difficult to choose
• His writing style was marked by a superfluity of adjectives