Overly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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overly
[ˈoʊvərli ]
Definition
adverb
to an excessive or unjustifiable extent; excessively.
Synonyms
excessively, overmuch, unduly, unnecessarily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overly |
Use this word when someone is doing something more than what is considered normal or reasonable, often with a slightly negative implication.
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| excessively |
Use this word to describe doing something much more than what is necessary, often indicating it is a problem.
|
| unduly |
Use this word to indicate that something is happening to a greater extent than is necessary or appropriate, often signaling unfairness or improperness.
|
| unnecessarily |
Use this word to show that an action or effort is more than what is needed, often highlighting a lack of necessity.
|
| overmuch |
This is a less common word and is typically used in formal or literary contexts to indicate an unusual abundance.
|
Examples of usage
- He was overly cautious about the dangers of street crime.
- She was criticized for being overly ambitious.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'overly dramatic' often appears in films and TV shows to describe characters who express emotions in an exaggerated way.
- Songs and literature sometimes explore themes of being 'overly' something, like in love or worry, creating relatable stories for audiences.
- In memes and online culture, people frequently joke about being 'overly emotional,' connecting humor to our daily experiences of feeling too much.
Psychology
- Being overly concerned about small details can lead to anxiety, showing how our feelings of excess can affect mental health.
- The idea of 'overly' can tie into behavior patterns, like perfectionism, where people feel driven to do everything perfectly.
- Research suggests that people who have overly high expectations often experience more stress and dissatisfaction in life.
Literature
- Classic authors often depict characters who act overly ambitious, leading to their downfall, like in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth.'
- In poetry, the use of 'overly' can create strong images, emphasizing excessive emotions or scenarios.
- 'Overly' is used in modern novels to illustrate a character's extreme personality traits or decisions, making stories more engaging.
Everyday Usage
- People often use phrases like 'overly cautious' or 'overly excited' to describe behavior that stands out in everyday conversations.
- In cooking, if a recipe calls for an 'overly generous' amount of salt, it suggests using way too much flavor.
- Businesses might describe strategies as 'overly complicated' to simplify processes, showcasing the need for clarity in communication.
Origin of 'overly'
Main points about word origin
- 'Overly' comes from the word 'over,' meaning too much, combined with the suffix '-ly' which turns adjectives into adverbs.
- The word has been used in English since the early 1800s, showing how long we've talked about things being too much.
- Similar terms can be found in other languages, highlighting the common human experience of excess.
The word 'overly' is a combination of the prefix 'over-' meaning excessively or too much, and the adverb 'ly' which is used to form adverbs indicating manner. It originated in Middle English around the 13th century and has been used in English to convey the idea of excessive or unjustifiable extent ever since.