Overstep: meaning, definitions and examples
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overstep
[ ˌoʊvərˈstɛp ]
behavior
To exceed the limits of what is considered acceptable or appropriate.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overstep |
Typically used when someone goes beyond acceptable or agreed boundaries, rules, or limits, often in social or professional situations. It carries a negative connotation.
|
| exceed |
Used when something goes beyond a limit or an expected amount, often in a neutral or positive context like performance, speed, or quantity.
|
| transcend |
Applies when something goes beyond ordinary limits or surpasses usual constraints, often in a philosophical, spiritual, or artistic context. It tends to have a positive connotation.
|
| violate |
Used when breaking or disregarding rules, laws, or moral principles. This word carries a strong negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She overstepped the boundaries of common courtesy by asking personal questions.
- The new manager quickly overstepped his authority by making major decisions without consulting his team members.
law
To go beyond or exceed (a limit or boundary), especially in a legal context.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overstep |
Used when a person or entity goes beyond acceptable or set boundaries, often in a metaphorical or ethical sense.
|
| exceed |
Appropriate when something goes beyond a certain limit, number, or quantity, often in a measurable way.
|
| violate |
Used when referring to breaking or failing to comply with rules, laws, agreements, or rights. Often has a negative connotation.
|
| trespass |
Refers to entering someone else's property without permission. Often carries a legal implication.
|
Examples of usage
- The company was accused of overstepping environmental regulations by releasing toxic waste into the river.
- The court ruled that the police had overstepped their powers by conducting an illegal search.
Translations
Translations of the word "overstep" in other languages:
🇵🇹 exceder
🇮🇳 अतिक्रमण करना
🇩🇪 überschreiten
🇮🇩 melampaui
🇺🇦 перевищувати
🇵🇱 przekroczyć
🇯🇵 超える
🇫🇷 dépasser
🇪🇸 exceder
🇹🇷 aşmak
🇰🇷 넘어서다
🇸🇦 تجاوز
🇨🇿 překročit
🇸🇰 prekročiť
🇨🇳 超越
🇸🇮 preseči
🇮🇸 fara yfir
🇰🇿 асып кету
🇬🇪 გადაჭარბება
🇦🇿 aşmaq
🇲🇽 exceder
Etymology
The word 'overstep' originated from Middle English 'oversteppen', which is a combination of 'over' and 'step'. It first appeared in the 14th century. The concept of going beyond a boundary or limit has been a part of human behavior for centuries, leading to the creation of this word to describe such actions.
See also: misstep, missteps, sidestep, step, steppe, stepping, steps.