overly large

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overly large" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is excessively big or larger than necessary. Example: "The overly large suitcase made it difficult for her to navigate through the crowded airport."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But overly large windows may offer too much of a good thing.

The New York Times

The chunks of marinated pork tenderloin were delicious, but the clams were overly large and rubbery.

The New York Times

In some companies, there have been failed strategies: overly large acquisitions, unsuccessful mergers or bungled reorganizations.

The New York Times

"So I ordered one about in the middle of the range he offers, not overly large.

The New York Times

The linguine with white clam sauce was marred by overly large, chewy clams.

The New York Times

And how is one to know the overly large territory of protective swans?

The New York Times

In fact, the onlytimes it didn't recognise my face were when I was wearing sunglasses and overly large headphones.

The Guardian - Tech

The rate of overly large babies, a condition called macrosomia, has been steadily increasing, Dr. Riley said.

The New York Times - Health

When not putting down the odd local insurrection, they could retreat to spectacular hilltop homes, their every care (and afternoon tea) anticipated by an overly large staff.

The New York Times - Travel

These do not sound overly large, but in the history of Australian pay-TV only three programmes have ever drawn a larger audience.

The Guardian - Sport

For Turville Grange, the Radziwills' Queen Anne-style house near Henley, he completely reinvented the simple, not overly large country house.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overly large", ensure the context clearly indicates why the size is problematic or undesirable. For example, "The overly large font made the document difficult to read."

Common error

Avoid using "overly large" when a simpler adjective like "huge" or "massive" would suffice, especially when the excessiveness is already implied. For instance, instead of "an overly large giant", simply say "a huge giant".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overly large" functions primarily as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase, describing the size of a noun. Ludwig AI confirms this, as it frequently appears before nouns in the examples provided, such as "overly large windows" or "overly large staff".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overly large" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that denotes something is excessively big or larger than necessary. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is often used to express a negative connotation regarding size, as it commonly implies that the size creates a problem. The phrase's frequency across News & Media and scientific sources indicates its wide applicability and neutral register, suitable for various writing styles and contexts. When employing "overly large", ensure the context warrants the adjective and consider alternatives like "extremely large" or "excessively large" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extremely large

Focuses on the degree of largeness, highlighting it is beyond normal.

excessively large

Similar to "overly large", but emphasizes that the size is beyond what is reasonable or necessary.

unduly large

Implies the size is inappropriate or unwarranted in the given situation.

disproportionately large

Highlights that the size is out of balance compared to other elements.

inordinately large

Indicates the size is excessive and exceeds reasonable limits.

unreasonably large

Suggests the size defies logic or good judgment.

unnecessarily large

Emphasizes that the size is not needed or justified.

exceptionally large

Highlights that the size is notably greater than usual.

inappropriately large

Indicates the size is unsuitable for the context.

prohibitively large

Suggests the size creates an obstacle or prevents something from happening.

FAQs

What does "overly large" mean?

"Overly large" means excessively or excessively big, bigger than necessary or appropriate. It implies that something is bigger than it should be or is needed.

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

You can use "overly large" to describe anything that is bigger than necessary. For example, "The "overly large portion" of food made me feel sick" or "The "overly large windows" let in too much sunlight.

What are some alternatives to "overly large"?

Alternatives to "overly large" include "extremely large", "excessively large", or "unduly large". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a subtle difference in meaning between "overly large" and "too large"?

Yes, while both indicate something is bigger than desired, "overly large" often suggests the size is inappropriate or problematic in a more general sense, while "too large" can imply it exceeds a specific limit or requirement. For example, "The file size is too large to email" versus "The "overly large file" is difficult to manage".