Overdo

To do something to an excessive or unnecessary degree; to exaggerate or go beyond what is appropriate, normal, or necessary. This can apply to actions, activities, emotions, or even ingredients in cooking. Overdoing something often results in a negative outcome, whether it's physical exhaustion, strained relationships, a poor tasting meal, or making something appear worse than it is. It implies a lack of moderation or a misjudgment of the correct amount or intensity required. The consequence often results in the loss of effectiveness or enjoyment in what one is overdoing. The intention may be positive, but the execution is flawed.

Overdo meaning with examples

• He knew he'd overdo it on the presentation; he crammed 70 slides instead of the suggested 30, and spent an unnecessary amount of time on each. The audience became bored, and the message lost impact. He had to work on brevity and prioritize key information to present a concise and engaging experience.
• She tried to overdo the acting in the scene, shouting and exaggerating her emotions to the point where it was unrealistic and unconvincing. The director asked her to dial it back. Nuance and subtlety were needed to portray the character correctly and give depth to the scene.
• During the marathon training, he would overdo the miles, pushing his body past its limits. The muscle strain he incurred would prevent him from racing in any future events. The necessity to listen to your body in order to avoid injury is important in the long run for competitive races.
• The chef tended to overdo the spice in his dishes, especially with the chili flakes, making many of his meals almost inedible for some of the restaurant patrons. A light hand and attention to the customer's palate were necessary for more success in the hospitality industry.
• She knew she might overdo it with the shopping spree after being alone for months. She didn't need the extra things but her emotional state caused her to be out of control with her spending. Learning to cope with feelings in a healthy way is essential to avoid making poor choices.