overstepped boundaries

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overstepped boundaries" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone has crossed a limit or violated an accepted norm or rule. Example: "His comments during the meeting clearly overstepped boundaries, making several team members uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But opponents like Jason's mother, Anne Baretz, say testing creates an atmosphere of distrust and overstepped boundaries.

The New York Times

Some observers view him as retreating strategically from the limelight, after having overstepped boundaries with his expansive reform agenda.

The Telegraph

But Mr. Kabila, who has been in power since 2001, suggested that the Carter Center, an American pro-democracy group, had overstepped boundaries.

The New York Times

The German leader called Obama on Wednesday about the issue, forcing him to assure a European leader for the second time this week that the United States had not overstepped boundaries in its eavesdropping programs.

The Washington Post

As seen in "Cinema Verite" the clash between the Raymonds and Mr. Gilbert revolved around the couple's belief that Mr. Gilbert instigated drama and may have overstepped boundaries — rumors circulated of a relationship between him and Ms. Loud, which both parties denied and which "Cinema Verite" portrays as a flirtation.

The New York Times - Arts

Specifically, the sculpture symbolizes the way humanity has "domesticated" the natural environment, and overstepped boundaries of decency in the process. .

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The problem is when we use this identity to overstep boundaries and infringe on people's freedom of choice.

The Guardian

Fox News has thrived for years by hyping news stories about lefty protesters who overstep boundaries in expressing their views.

The Washington Post

"Whenever they were over they would make sure not to overstep boundaries, and I was the one who was like, 'It's O.K. to film today,' " she recalled.

The New York Times

It turns out that there are limits to Zappos's customer service: callers who truly overstep boundaries are sent to a top-secret eternal hold loop known internally as the Abyss.

The New Yorker

PAGE B3 FEAR AS A JOB SEARCH HURDLE Networking in a job search brings up many of the same fears as dating -- of rejection, of looking like an idiot, of overstepping boundaries, of failing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overstepped boundaries", ensure the context clearly defines what the boundaries are and why they were violated. This adds clarity and impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "overstepped boundaries" without specifying the nature of the boundaries. Without context, the phrase lacks substance and may confuse the reader. Be specific about which rules, norms, or expectations were violated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overstepped boundaries" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun. It describes the action of exceeding or violating established limits or rules. As Ludwig AI states, it’s considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Huffington Post

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overstepped boundaries" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the violation of established limits, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not extremely common, it appears frequently in News & Media, often conveying disapproval or criticism. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; specify which boundaries were violated to enhance comprehension. Related phrases such as "crossed the line" and "violated limits" can serve as effective alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crossed the line

This phrase implies exceeding acceptable limits of behavior or conduct.

violated limits

This suggests a breach of established or understood restrictions.

infringed upon rights

This relates to the encroachment on someone's legal or moral entitlements.

transgressed limits

Implies exceeding a moral or legal constraint.

exceeded authority

This indicates acting beyond one's given power or mandate.

encroached upon territory

Metaphorically means intruding into someone else's domain or area of responsibility.

invaded privacy

Specifically means intruding into someone's personal space or information.

breached protocol

This indicates a violation of established procedures or etiquette.

overreached powers

This means exerting more power than is legitimately held.

taken liberties

Suggests acting with undue familiarity or freedom, often inappropriately.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "overstepped boundaries"?

Saying someone "overstepped boundaries" means they exceeded acceptable limits or violated established rules, norms, or expectations. It implies a transgression or inappropriate action.

How can I use "overstepped boundaries" in a sentence?

You can use "overstepped boundaries" to describe situations where someone's actions went too far or were inappropriate. For example, "His comments during the meeting clearly overstepped boundaries, making several team members uncomfortable."

What are some alternatives to saying "overstepped boundaries"?

Some alternatives to "overstepped boundaries" include "crossed the line", "violated limits", or "infringed upon rights", depending on the specific context.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "overstepped boundaries"?

The phrase "overstepped boundaries" is appropriate in situations where someone's actions have violated understood or established limits, whether those limits are legal, ethical, or social. It's particularly apt when describing actions that are seen as an intrusion or a violation of personal or professional space.