overdoing it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overdoing it" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is doing something to an excessive degree or going beyond what is necessary. Example: "I think you're overdoing it with the decorations for the party; a few balloons would be enough."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is overdoing it.

The Economist

"Masks are overdoing it".

The New York Times - Magazine

But "remarkable" is overdoing it.

The Guardian - Business

Are you overdoing it here?

The Guardian

Some people are overdoing it with supplements.

Harvard University

He gestured when appropriate, without overdoing it.

The New Yorker

Yet etiquette experts caution against overdoing it.

The New York Times

The key lies in not overdoing it.

Independent

This seems like overdoing it, frankly.

The Washington Post

Then again maybe I'm overdoing it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"People will say she is overdoing it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overdoing it", consider the context and ensure it accurately reflects the idea of exceeding reasonable limits. Sometimes, a simpler phrase might be more effective.

Common error

Avoid using "overdoing it" when simply referring to doing something thoroughly. The phrase implies excessiveness, not just diligence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overdoing it" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It commonly serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing an action carried out to an excessive degree. Ludwig provides examples from various reliable sources, confirming its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

24%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "overdoing it" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions performed to an excessive degree. As Ludwig AI confirms, it frequently appears in news and media, as well as in informal and wiki contexts. Related phrases include "going overboard" and "exceeding limits". When using "overdoing it", ensure it accurately reflects the idea of exceeding reasonable boundaries; otherwise, a simpler or more precise phrase may be more appropriate. Ludwig's examples provide a rich understanding of its diverse applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Going overboard

This alternative suggests exceeding reasonable limits or boundaries.

Exceeding limits

This phrase refers to surpassing established or acceptable boundaries.

Taking it too far

This implies going beyond what is acceptable or tolerable.

Pushing it too much

This suggests applying too much pressure or effort, leading to a negative outcome.

Going to extremes

This refers to acting in a way that is not moderate or reasonable.

Laying it on thick

This means exaggerating or overemphasizing something.

Over the top

This describes something that is excessively dramatic or flamboyant.

Too much

This short phrase implies that something is excessive or unnecessary.

Exaggerating

This means representing something as being larger, better, or worse than it really is.

Being excessive

This refers to the quality of exceeding reasonable or normal limits.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "overdoing it" in a sentence?

You can replace "overdoing it" with phrases like "going overboard", "exceeding limits", or "taking it too far" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "overdoing it"?

Yes, "overdoing it" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and written English to describe the act of doing something to an excessive degree, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "overdoing it"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that someone is exceeding a reasonable or necessary level of effort, action, or intensity in a particular situation. For example, "I think you're "overdoing it" with the party decorations".

What's the difference between "overdoing it" and "doing enough"?

"Overdoing it" implies exceeding what is necessary or appropriate, often leading to negative consequences. "Doing enough", on the other hand, suggests meeting the required level or standard without going to excess.