Vocabulary word Excessive - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Abundance and Excess

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High School 10

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TOEFL 8

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Dictionary Definition of excessive

Going beyond what is considered normal, reasonable, or appropriate.
"He faced excessive criticism for a minor mistake."

Detailed Meaning of Excessive

It suggests an amount, degree, or intensity that surpasses what is necessary, expected, or desired. When something is excessive, it exceeds the usual or acceptable limits, often leading to negative consequences or outcomes. It implies an abundance, extravagance, or overindulgence that may result in wastefulness, immoderation, or imbalance. Excessive behavior, actions, or quantities can be seen as extreme, disproportionate, or unnecessary. This adjective can be applied to various contexts, such as excessive spending, excessive noise, excessive workload, or excessive heat. It implies a lack of moderation or restraint and highlights an imbalance that may disrupt harmony, functionality, or well-being. Recognizing and addressing excessive tendencies is important to maintain a healthy and balanced approach in various aspects of life.

Example Sentences for Excessive

1. The party was filled with excessive noise and chaos.
2. The company incurred excessive expenses due to poor financial management.
3. Her excessive enthusiasm often overwhelmed those around her.
4. The teacher reprimanded the student for his excessive talking during class.
5. The high temperatures during the summer were excessive and unbearable.
6. The athlete was penalized for excessive celebration after scoring a goal.

Origin and Etymology of Excessive

The adjective 'excessive' originates from the Latin word 'excessivus,' which is formed from 'excessus,' as discussed earlier, meaning 'exceeding' or 'going beyond,' and the suffix '-ivus,' indicating 'pertaining to' or 'characterized by.' This etymology underscores the idea of something being characterized by going beyond what is considered normal, reasonable, or appropriate. When we describe something as 'excessive,' we are emphasizing its tendency to exceed the bounds of what is considered typical or acceptable. The Latin roots of 'excessive' highlight its association with going beyond established limits or norms, making it a suitable term to describe something that is overly abundant or beyond what is considered justifiable.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective excessive:

insufficient

moderate

extreme

reasonable

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Excessive

1. The government imposed fines on companies for excessive pollution.
2. The toddler's excessive tantrums made it challenging for the parents to manage.
3. She was concerned about her friend's excessive gambling habits.
4. The restaurant received complaints about the excessive saltiness of the food.
5. The athlete was benched due to excessive fouls during the game.
6. Her excessive spending habits left her drowning in debt.
7. The excessive noise from the construction site disrupted the entire neighborhood.
8. His excessive enthusiasm for the project bordered on obsession.
9. The excessive heatwave made it unbearable to be outdoors.
10. Excessive stress can negatively impact one's physical health.
11. The excessive amount of sugar in the dessert made it too sweet to enjoy.
12. His excessive demands on the team led to burnout and frustration.
13. The excessive use of plastic is harming the environment.
14. The excessive workload forced employees to work long hours.
15. Excessive procrastination can hinder academic success.
16. The excessive traffic congestion caused long delays on the highway.
17. Her excessive concern for cleanliness bordered on compulsive behavior.
18. The excessive rainfall caused widespread flooding in the area.
19. Excessive screen time can have adverse effects on children's development.
20. The excessive bureaucracy in the government slowed down decision-making.
21. The excessive use of pesticides in farming harms ecosystems.
22. His excessive pride prevented him from admitting his mistakes.
23. Excessive consumption of junk food can lead to health problems.
24. The excessive use of social media can affect mental well-being.
25. Excessive caution can sometimes hold you back from taking risks and growing.