overstep

/'ouvə'step/

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Explanation of the Word "Overstep"

Definition: The verb "overstep" means to go beyond the limits or boundaries that are considered acceptable or appropriate. It can refer to breaking rules, laws, or social norms.

Advanced Usage:

In more formal situations, "overstep" can refer to exceeding expectations or standards in a positive or negative way. It can imply that someone has done more than what is considered appropriate in a certain context.

Word Variants:

• Overstepping (noun): The act of overstepping.
  • Example: "His overstepping of the rules caused a lot of confusion."
• Overstepped (past tense): The past form of overstep.
  • Example: "She overstepped her role in the project."

Different Meanings:

While "overstep" commonly relates to boundaries, it can also be used in a broader sense to indicate surpassing limits in various contexts, such as performance or expectations.

Synonyms:

• Exceed
• Transgress
• Violate
• Go too far
• Cross the line

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs that use "overstep" directly, but you might encounter phrases like: - "Cross the line" (which means to overstep in a negative way). - "Push the limits" (which can mean to overstep acceptable boundaries).

Summary:

"Overstep" is a useful verb that helps describe situations where someone exceeds expected boundaries, whether in terms of behavior, rules, or standards.

Academic

Verb

1. be superior or better than some standard
   • She exceeded our expectations
   • She topped her performance of last year
2. pass beyond (limits or boundaries)

Synonyms

• exceed
• transcend
• pass
• go past
• top
• transgress
• trespass