hyperactive

USAGE SUMMARY

'hyperactive' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is excessively active, energetic, or full of nervous energy. For example: "The children were unusually hyperactive today, so I had to take them outside to get some exercise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Grattard was formerly one of the very few long-standing chefs in the confined but open-minded kitchen at L'Astrance, headed by hyperactive Pascal Barbot.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Barely three years since he reinvented himself as Skrillex, he is the figurehead for the current unprecedented explosion of electronic dance music – including a high-sugar, hyperactive version of dubstep – into the middle American mainstream.

The Guardian - Music

Riyadh is having a bout of uncharacteristically high-profile and hyperactive diplomacy — motivated by genuine anger at Barack Obama's policies over both Syria and Iran and a (probably exaggerated) sense that the 60-year era of US commitment to defend the Gulf and its oil fields is drawing to an end.

The Guardian

We have created a hyperactive media which needs to be fed, constantly, with morsels of amusement and intrigue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Under Paddy Ashdown's leadership, Kennedy held various portfolios, even if he occasionally exasperated the hyperactive Ashdown with his determined lack of application.

The Guardian

It's an intriguing and exhilarating film, which like Birdman uses the jittery, hyperactive quality of a drum solo to incite nervous excitement.

The Guardian - Film

It is a terrific film: smart, funny, more or less in control of its own hyperactive invention.

The Guardian - Film

Many Americans, not least the strident "tea-party" populists who helped Mr Brown to victory in Massachusetts, complain that Uncle Sam has if anything been hyperactive since the financial crisis of 2008.

The Economist

Now Hans Eichel, Germany's minister of finance, and his officials would like to internationalise the debate.Outside Germany, that debate is more about hedge funds' transparency than about hyperactive corporate governance.

The Economist

Mr Urresti has helped to push up the president's approval rating by behaving as a hyperactive police chief, forever seeking headlines even as crime worsens.At the same time Mr Humala has appointed a core of capable technocrats to run socio-economic policies.

The Economist

It also ignores a third reason for the Home Office's dysfunctional behaviour, which lies closer to home the hyperactive drive of its leaders for new legislation.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific medical condition, ensure "hyperactive" is used appropriately and avoid outdated connotations associated with attention deficit disorder. Consider more specific and sensitive language.

Common error

Avoid using "hyperactive" as a casual label for anyone who is simply energetic. It's important to reserve the term for situations where activity levels are truly excessive and potentially problematic, to prevent misunderstandings or stigmatization.

Linguistic Context

The word "hyperactive" functions primarily as an adjective. It describes a noun, indicating that the noun exhibits an elevated level of activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. Examples show it modifying subjects like "media", "diplomacy", and "children".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hyperactive" is a grammatically correct and very common adjective used to describe an increased state of activity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and suggests using it to characterize subjects that exhibit excessive energy or activity. While generally acceptable, remember to use more precise language in formal or medical contexts to avoid potential stigmatization. Alternatives include "overactive" and "excessively energetic". Always consider the specific nuance you want to convey and the potential impact of your word choice. The most frequent usage of "hyperactive" is found in the "News & Media".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overactive

Similar in meaning, emphasizing excessive activity.

excessively energetic

Focuses on the abundance of energy.

highly spirited

Highlights enthusiasm and liveliness.

restless

Emphasizes the inability to stay still or quiet.

frenetic

Suggests rapid and chaotic activity.

manic

Implies an elevated mood and excessive energy, often in a clinical context.

agitated

Highlights restlessness and anxiety.

overstimulated

Focuses on being excessively aroused or excited.

frantic

Suggests desperate or wild activity.

supercharged

Emphasizes an enhanced level of energy or activity.

FAQs

How is "hyperactive" typically used in a sentence?

The word "hyperactive" is used as an adjective to describe someone or something with an increased state of activity. For instance, "The child was described as "hyperactive" during playtime."

What are some alternative words for "hyperactive"?

Instead of "hyperactive", you could use terms such as "overactive", "excessively energetic", or "restless", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "hyperactive" in a formal setting?

While "hyperactive" is generally acceptable, in formal or professional settings, consider using more precise language that avoids potential stigmatization, such as "highly energetic" or "excessively active".

What's the difference between "hyperactive" and "restless"?

"Hyperactive" implies an increased state of activity, while "restless" suggests an inability to stay still or quiet. While related, "hyperactive" focuses on the amount of activity, and "restless" on the inability to relax.