Definition

Having goals or desires that are too high or unrealistic, often leading to disappointment or failure.

Example

His overambitious plans for the project worried his team.

Conversation

I think my plans for this project might be a bit overambitious.

What do you mean by that?

I just want to achieve so much in such a short time.

Sometimes it's good to be realistic rather than overambitious.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overambitious → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "ambitious" (from Latin "ambitiosus", meaning eager for advancement). The word "overambitious" describes someone who is excessively eager for success or advancement beyond reasonable limits.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'excessively' ('over-') eager for success — that's what overambitious means.

Visually Confused Words