Overusing: meaning, definitions and examples
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overusing
[ ˌoʊvərˈjuːzɪŋ ]
excessive use
Overusing refers to the act of using something too much or beyond its intended purpose. This can lead to negative effects, such as diminishing returns or damage to the item or concept being overused. Overusing often applies to resources, language, and practices.
Synonyms
excessive use, misuse, overexploitation, overindulgence.
Examples of usage
- She was overusing her phone battery by constantly streaming videos.
- Overusing common phrases can make your writing sound clichéd.
- The team was overusing their key player, risking injury.
- Overusing social media can lead to addiction.
Etymology
The term 'overuse' is formed by combining the prefix 'over-', which means 'excessive' or 'too much', with the verb 'use', which originates from the Latin 'usi' meaning 'to employ something for some purpose'. The concept of overusing dates back to the early 20th century, where it was often used in discussions about resource management, environmental concerns, and effective communication. As society has evolved, the term has broadened in scope, applicable to technology, health, and even interpersonal relationships. The growing dependence on technology has exacerbated the occurrences of overusing, particularly in the context of digital devices and social media, highlighting the need for moderate and mindful usage.