a bit excessive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit excessive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is more than what is necessary or reasonable, often in a slightly informal context. Example: "The amount of food at the party was a bit excessive, leaving many guests with leftovers to take home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Complete Mythology" is exhaustive, even a bit excessive.

The New York Times - Arts

I now realise that was a bit excessive.

The Guardian - Arts

Experts recommend replacing bras every six months, but I think this is a bit excessive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Him scoring runs in the second innings just seems a bit excessive now.

The Guardian - Sport

For those in the know, firewood fanatics can seem a bit excessive.

The New York Times - Travel

"On the other hand, $1,000 a foursome is a bit excessive.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Those who rooted for Glenn Close, even while admitting that the boiled bunny was a wee bit excessive, may enjoy the sight of G-Girl punching a skylight into her ex's ceiling.

The New York Times

Hugh H. Hurt, a researcher who developed the Head Protection Research Laboratory at the University of Southern California, and author of the Hurt Report, a seminal study of motorcycle crashes, calls the current Snell M2005 standard "a little bit excessive".

The New York Times

"But I think it's a little bit excessive".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's very typical of the Carlyle," Mr. Short said, "to be a tiny bit excessive, but still in good taste".

The New York Times

Senator John Kerry on Sunday distanced himself from contentious statements he made three decades ago after returning from the Vietnam War, saying his long-ago use of the word "atrocities" to describe his and others' actions was inappropriate and "a little bit excessive".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit excessive" to express a mild disapproval or reservation about something that goes beyond reasonable limits. This phrasing softens criticism, making it suitable for polite conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit excessive" in formal or critical contexts where a stronger, more precise term is necessary. For example, in a legal document, replace it with language that is more direct and specific.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit excessive" functions as an adverbial modifier, softening the assessment of something that goes beyond what is considered necessary or reasonable. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and readily usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academic

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a bit excessive" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something is slightly beyond what's necessary or reasonable. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is readily usable in written English and suitable for diverse contexts. While mostly encountered in neutral registers, like news and media, it's appropriate in many everyday situations. When a more formal or direct tone is needed, alternatives like "somewhat unnecessary" or "rather disproportionate" may be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat over the top

Emphasizes the exaggerated nature of something.

slightly unreasonable

Focuses on the lack of justification or rationale.

a little extravagant

Highlights the lavish or wasteful nature of something.

rather disproportionate

Indicates an imbalance or lack of proper scale.

somewhat unnecessary

Points out that something is not required or essential.

a touch exorbitant

Highlights the high cost or price of something.

mildly obsessive

Suggests a slight preoccupation or fixation.

a bit prohibitive

Implies something is overly restrictive or prevents action.

somewhat inflated

Indicates an exaggeration or overstatement.

slightly abusive

Indicates that someone’s behavior is excessive in a way that causes harm or offense.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit excessive" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit excessive" to describe something that exceeds what is necessary or reasonable. For example, "The decorations were beautiful, but the amount of glitter was "a bit excessive"".

What are some alternatives to saying "a bit excessive"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "somewhat over the top", "slightly unreasonable", or "a little extravagant".

Is it appropriate to use "a bit excessive" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "a bit excessive" is more suited to informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise and professional alternatives, such as "disproportionate" or "unnecessary".

What's the difference between "a bit excessive" and "a little excessive"?

The phrases "a bit excessive" and "a little excessive" are nearly interchangeable and carry the same meaning. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic variation.