avoid overdoing it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "avoid overdoing it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to not go to extremes or to exercise moderation in their actions or efforts. Example: "When exercising, it's important to avoid overdoing it to prevent injury."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

We present a three-minute guide (and the products you'll need) to avoid overdoing it.

Huffington Post

Fine-tune exercise accordingly so that while your program remains challenging, you avoid overdoing it.

Huffington Post

Paul McCartney said Tuesday that all we need is love ― and to avoid overdoing it this holiday.

Huffington Post

Foregoing the entire pie and buying your fresh or frozen pizza in slices helps to avoid overdoing it with America's favorite food.

Huffington Post

Loading up with a plate of this leafy green for an appetizer could help you avoid overdoing it come entrée time.

Huffington Post

Here's how to avoid overdoing it: Relax.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Always add gradually, to avoid overdoing the potato, as it does alter both flavor and texture.

WikiHow

Although he explicitly tried to avoid overdoing Tchaikovsky's sometimes cloying sweetness, Mr. Macal seemed at his best when he let the emotion hang out and gave the orchestra its head.

The New York Times - Arts

Get the form to approximately what you want, and then put the planer away to avoid overdoing.

WikiHow

Think about smarmy people who smile too much when wanting to get something from you; that kind of smiling alerts you to something being up, so avoid overdoing the smiles.

WikiHow

The zapping of bugs is an early foreshadowing Tierney avoids overdoing and the one big joke of a jogger going by works very well.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving advice, use "avoid overdoing it" to caution against excessive effort or indulgence. It's applicable in various contexts, from exercising to applying makeup.

Common error

Avoid using "avoid overdoing it" when you actually mean to encourage more effort. The phrase is specifically for preventing excess, not insufficient action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "avoid overdoing it" functions primarily as an imperative, offering advice or a caution against excessive action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound, guiding restraint.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

40%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "avoid overdoing it" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for advising moderation across various situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is most common in Wiki and News & Media sources, suggesting a neutral to informal register. When writing, consider alternatives like ""don't go overboard"" or ""exercise moderation"" depending on the context. Remember, this phrase is best suited for preventing excess and not for encouraging more effort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Don't go overboard

Emphasizes not exceeding reasonable limits, particularly in enthusiasm or effort.

Exercise moderation

Suggests practicing restraint and balance in one's actions.

Refrain from excess

Formally advises against indulging excessively in something.

Keep it within limits

Implies staying within defined boundaries to avoid undesirable outcomes.

Take it easy

Recommends a relaxed and unhurried approach to prevent strain or overexertion.

Don't push too hard

Advises against exerting oneself excessively, especially when facing resistance.

Avoid extremes

Stresses the importance of avoiding drastic or excessive measures.

Use restraint

Highlights the need for self-control and careful management of one's impulses.

Be moderate

A simple directive to maintain a balanced and reasonable approach.

Hold back

Suggests resisting the urge to fully commit or invest oneself, preserving resources.

FAQs

How can I use "avoid overdoing it" in a sentence?

You can use "avoid overdoing it" to advise someone against excess in various situations. For example, "When exercising, "avoid overdoing it" to prevent injuries", or "With makeup, "avoid overdoing it" for a natural look".

What are some alternatives to "avoid overdoing it"?

Alternatives include "don't go overboard", "exercise moderation", or "refrain from excess". The best choice depends on the specific context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "avoid overdoing it"?

It's appropriate when advising someone to be moderate and not to go to extremes in their actions. It's suitable in contexts where excess can lead to negative consequences, such as health, finances, or relationships.

What's the difference between "avoid overdoing it" and "don't overdo it"?

The phrases are very similar. "Avoid overdoing it" is slightly more formal, while "don't overdo it" is more conversational. Both convey the same message: to not exceed reasonable limits.