overly descriptive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overly descriptive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that provides excessive detail, often to the point of being unnecessary or distracting. Example: "The author's writing style was overly descriptive, making it difficult for readers to follow the main plot."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

These combats are lovingly detailed, almost overly descriptive, as Dubus tries to connect to the mythic struggle of male avengers throughout history.

The New York Times - Books

Despite some overly descriptive passages and occasionally awkward dialogue, Brownstein ably conveys the details of Davey's unusual childhood, as well as the suffering and regrets in the lives of his friends, parents, siblings and neighbors.

The New York Times - Books

This approach provides some quantitative rigor to phenomenological approaches that can be overly descriptive and insufficiently transparent.

Journal of Archaeological Science

Some are overly descriptive, with little analysis and supporting literature, while others reflect a more rigorous approach.

Pastoralism

Romance is dismissed as being badly written and overly descriptive.

Vice

It is a very vulnerable show and took much courage for me not to fill the paintings with overly descriptive yet aimless meanings.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

He or she will also have to consider language; something written using short, upbeat, and catchy sentences is more likely to keep a teenager's attention than long, rambling paragraphs, filled with complex, overly-descriptive sentences.

WikiHow

Your stomach tightens when you're being duped and irritation rises when you're being manipulated by overly used descriptive words to wield surprise.

Huffington Post

She's discerning about people and the passing thought, but she can be snobbish about class and overly fond of descriptive passages, telling us repeatedly of sagging skies and clouds.

The New York Times - Books

Aim for a general topic or phrase and don't worry about being overly creative or descriptive.

WikiHow

Too sexually descriptive?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing feedback on writing, use "overly descriptive" to pinpoint sections where the detail distracts from the core message. This helps the writer focus on balancing detail with clarity.

Common error

Avoid simply adding more details thinking it will make your writing better. "Overly descriptive" writing can slow pacing and bore readers. Focus on relevant details that enhance understanding and engagement, not just inflate word count.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overly descriptive" functions as an adjective modifier, typically used to critique or evaluate the style or content of writing, art, or other forms of expression. It indicates that the subject is characterized by an excess of descriptive detail. As Ludwig AI says, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "overly descriptive" serves as a critical assessment, typically directed at writing or art that suffers from an excess of detail. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, it's not overly common with a neutral tone applicable across various registers. Usage patterns show it is most frequent in News & Media and Science. If you're looking for alternatives, consider phrases like "excessively detailed" or "too elaborate". When using the phrase, make sure to have a clear understanding of why the level of detail is detrimental to the subject at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessively detailed

Focuses on the excess in detail, similar to "overly descriptive" but emphasizes the quantity of details.

too elaborate

Highlights the complexity and intricacy, suggesting the description is unnecessarily complex.

excessively graphic

Emphasizes the vivid and explicit nature of the description, particularly in visual terms.

unnecessarily verbose

Points out the excessive use of words, making the description longer than necessary.

laboriously detailed

Suggests a meticulous and painstaking effort in providing details, possibly to an unnecessary extent.

needlessly intricate

Highlights the unnecessary complexity and fine details in the description.

over-embellished

Indicates that the description is excessively decorated or ornamented with details.

immoderately detailed

Emphasizes the lack of moderation in the amount of detail provided.

inordinately descriptive

Focuses on the excessive and unreasonable degree of description.

gratuitously detailed

Highlights that the details are unnecessary and uncalled for, without adding value.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "overly descriptive"?

When something is described as "overly descriptive", it means that it contains too much detail, often to the point where it becomes distracting or tedious. It suggests that the details are unnecessary and detract from the main focus.

How can I avoid writing that is "overly descriptive"?

To avoid writing that is "overly descriptive", focus on including only the most relevant and impactful details. Prioritize clarity and conciseness, and ensure that each detail serves a purpose in enhancing the reader's understanding or experience. Consider if "concise writing" will get your point across in a better way.

What are some synonyms for "overly descriptive"?

Some synonyms for "overly descriptive" include "excessively detailed", "too elaborate", and unnecessarily verbose. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always bad to be "overly descriptive"?

While being "overly descriptive" is generally seen as negative, there might be specific contexts or genres where a high level of detail is appreciated or expected. However, even in those cases, it's crucial to maintain a balance and avoid overwhelming the audience with unnecessary information.