Overtask: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is given more work than they can handle. Commonly used in professional or academic settings.

• The manager should be careful not to overtask the team.
• Teachers should avoid overtasking students with excessive homework.

Used when someone is carrying too much responsibility or weight, often leading to stress. Can be used both physically and metaphorically.

• The caregiver felt overburdened by the additional responsibilities.
• The backpack was overburdened with heavy books.

Used to describe a state of being completely overcome by emotions, tasks, or situations. Often used to convey a sense of being unable to cope.

• She felt overwhelmed by the amount of support she received after the accident.
• New students may feel overwhelmed by the transition to college life.

Used to describe a situation where something or someone is given too much to handle at once, often resulting in failure or breakdown. Can be used technically or metaphorically.

• The computer crashed because it was overloaded with too many programs running at once.
• Don't overload the washing machine; it won't clean the clothes properly.

Used to indicate working too much or too hard, often leading to exhaustion or burnout.

• The doctor warned him about the dangers of chronic overwork.
• She tends to overwork herself, staying late at the office almost every night.

Used to describe a state of extreme physical or mental tiredness, often after a long period of effort.

• After running the marathon, she was completely exhausted.
• A full day of work in the sun exhausted him.