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Overstepping: meaning, definitions and examples

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overstepping

 

[ oʊvərˈstɛpɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

boundaries set

Overstepping refers to the act of exceeding a limit or boundary, often in a manner that is considered inappropriate or disrespectful. It can pertain to both physical spaces and social norms. This term is commonly used in legal contexts where someone might go beyond the authority granted to them. Additionally, overstepping can apply to personal relationships, where one person may intrude on another's privacy or autonomy. The implications of overstepping vary depending on the context and the relationships involved.

Synonyms

exceeding, intruding, overreaching, transgressing

Examples of usage

  • He felt she was overstepping her boundaries as a colleague.
  • Overstepping could lead to serious consequences in the workplace.
  • It's vital to know when you are overstepping in personal relationships.
  • The politician was accused of overstepping the limits of his power.

Translations

Translations of the word "overstepping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 excesso

🇮🇳 अतिक्रमण

🇩🇪 Überschreitung

🇮🇩 melampaui

🇺🇦 перевищення

🇵🇱 przekroczenie

🇯🇵 越境

🇫🇷 débordement

🇪🇸 sobrepaso

🇹🇷 aşma

🇰🇷 초과

🇸🇦 تجاوز

🇨🇿 překročení

🇸🇰 prekročenie

🇨🇳 超越

🇸🇮 prekoračitev

🇮🇸 yfirganga

🇰🇿 асып кету

🇬🇪 გადასვლა

🇦🇿 ötmək

🇲🇽 sobrepaso

Etymology

The word 'overstepping' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'over-' and the gerund form of the verb 'step'. The prefix 'over-' comes from Old English 'ofer', meaning 'over' or 'beyond', indicating excessiveness. 'Step' has its roots in Old English 'stæppan', which means to tread or to step on. The concept of crossing a boundary figuratively relates to both physical and social limits. The term began to appear in usage around the late 19th century as discussions about social norms and personal boundaries gained prominence. Over time, 'overstepping' has been utilized in various contexts, including legal, personal, and professional settings, reinforcing the importance of understanding and respecting limits.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,664 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.