overly big

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overly big" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is excessively large or more than what is considered appropriate in size. Example: "The box was overly big for the small items inside, making it difficult to carry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He wants to tax the overly big ones and limit their ability to do reckless deals.

The New York Times - Magazine

He was a nice sort, not overly big, and he only cost 16 grand in Euros.

The Guardian - Sport

We paid $73 for a 2009 Prestige des Hautes Garrigues from Domaine Santa Duc, yet we found it overly big and jammy.

The New York Times - Food

The base has been criticized as being overly big in scale, and, indeed, an 80-foot entrance arch is hardly intimate.

The New York Times - Arts

It was not an overly big crowd, so it's hard to say if Mountain Creek's transformation has been a financial success.

The New York Times - Travel

The role generally works to Mr. DiCaprio's strengths since he has to keep a lid on the character and his own tendency to go overly big; even his physical performance, the way his arms and legs jangle, is more controlled.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The project would be "far too big, overly dense and intense" for the neighborhood, according to a statement from City Councilman Mitch Englander, whose jurisdiction covers Sherwood Forest.

Los Angeles Times

However, from the outset, consumer advocates and doctors warned that the state's initiative was too big and overly complicated.

Los Angeles Times

Mitt Romney and other Republicans have criticized Dodd-Frank, contending that it is overly complex and protects "too big to fail" institutions.

The New York Times

"He doesn't get too big headed or overly confident and I keep him under my arm when he goes through difficult times.

BBC

And the biggest programmers, like NBCUniversal and Viacom, too big to be locked into overly restrictive contracts with cable companies, are mostly happy to oblige.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing dimensions, be specific with units to avoid ambiguity. Instead of just stating something is "overly big", provide measurements or comparisons for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "overly big" in formal or professional writing where more precise and technical language is preferred. Opt for terms like "excessively large" or provide specific measurements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overly big" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that the noun's size is excessive or inappropriate. Ludwig examples show it describing physical objects, abstract concepts, and even actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

25%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "overly big" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something excessively large. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, and while more formal alternatives exist, its usage spans across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, consider whether a more precise measurement or a more formal equivalent like "excessively large" might be preferable. While the phrase is correct, using clear language will help avoid possible misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

too large

A simpler way of saying something is bigger than what is needed or appropriate.

excessively large

Focuses on the extent of the size, indicating it's beyond the normal or acceptable limit.

unduly large

Highlights that the size is inappropriate or unwarranted.

disproportionately large

Emphasizes the lack of proper proportion or balance in size.

inordinately sized

Stresses the size is beyond what is ordinary or reasonable.

immoderately sized

Indicates a lack of moderation or restraint in size.

unnecessarily large

Points out the size is bigger than what is required or needed.

over the top size

Suggests that the size is excessive and dramatic, beyond what is expected or tasteful.

unwieldly big

Implies the size makes it difficult to handle or manage.

vastly oversized

Conveys that the size is significantly beyond the normal or standard dimensions.

FAQs

How can I use "overly big" in a sentence?

You can use "overly big" to describe something that is excessively large for its purpose or context. For example, "The suitcase was "too big" for a weekend trip".

What's the difference between "overly big" and "excessively large"?

"Overly big" is more informal, while "excessively large" is a more formal way of saying the same thing. Use "excessively large" in professional writing and "overly big" in casual conversation.

What are some synonyms for "overly big"?

Some synonyms for "overly big" include "too large", "excessively large", and "disproportionately large".

Is it appropriate to use "overly big" in academic writing?

While understandable, "overly big" might be considered too informal for academic writing. Opt for more precise or formal alternatives such as "unduly large" or "inordinately sized" depending on the context.