Overweight: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word in medical or formal contexts to describe a person who weighs more than what is considered healthy.

• He is slightly overweight and needs to exercise more.
• The doctor advised her to lose some weight because she is overweight.

Use this word specifically in medical and scientific contexts to describe a person who has a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher.

• She was diagnosed as obese and was put on a strict diet.
• The government is concerned about the rising number of obese children.

This term is more neutral and can describe someone who has a larger build or extra weight, not necessarily in a negative way.

• He is a heavy man but very strong.
• The suitcase is heavy, can you help me carry it?

This term can be offensive and should be used with caution. It describes someone with excess body fat.

• He felt bad when he was called fat by his classmates.
• That cat is really fat; it must be overfed.

This term is often used to describe someone who is slightly overweight in a more gentle or affectionate way.

• She has a plump figure that makes her look cute.
• The baby has such plump cheeks; he's adorable.

Use this term in a formal or medical setting. It is a polite and respectful way to refer to someone who weighs more than what is considered healthy.

• The doctor mentioned that being overweight can lead to health risks
• Many people struggle with being overweight and try to find ways to maintain a healthier lifestyle

This term is often used in medical contexts to classify individuals who have a BMI over 30. It is a clinical term but can still be sensitive, so it's best used by professionals or in educational materials.

• The nurse explained that an obese person might be at a higher risk for diabetes
• Treatment plans can help an obese person lose weight and improve health

This term is less harsh than 'fat person' but still might not be the most respectful way to describe someone. It’s better to use in less formal conversations among close friends or family where the context is not meant to be hurtful.

• He described himself as a heavy person who likes to eat well
• They saw a heavy person walking briskly through the park

This term can be considered impolite and disrespectful. It's best to avoid using it as it can hurt someone's feelings.

• It's not nice to call someone a fat person
• Instead, try to use kinder words