C1adverb1K

Overly

UK /["/ˈəʊvəli/"]/US /["/ˈəʊvərli/"]/

Definition

too; very

In simple words: too much or more than needed

Examples

  • I'm not overly fond of pasta.
  • We think you are being overly optimistic.

Usage notes

Use 'overly' in contexts where something is excessive. It's suitable for both formal and casual settings, but may not fit in very informal conversations.

Grammar pattern

overly + adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'overly' as 'over the limit' — imagine a glass of water overflowing.

Collocations

  • overly cautious
  • overly sensitive
  • overly ambitious
  • overly elaborate
  • overly critical

Synonyms

  • excessively

Antonyms

  • under
  • moderately
  • insufficiently

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'over' in casual contexts
  • Using 'overly' with nouns instead of adjectives
  • Incorrectly spelling as 'overlye'