overblown
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərˌbloʊn/
KK: /ˈoʊvərˌbloʊn/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is exaggerated or excessive, often in a way that seems pretentious or overly dramatic.
Example
The movie received criticism for its overblown special effects that distracted from the story.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more overblown
Superlative: most overblown
Conversation
Did you see the decorations for the party?
Yeah, they seemed a bit overblown to me.
I agree, sometimes less is more, right?
Exactly! It can be more elegant without all the fuss.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
exaggerated
inflated
pretentious
Antonyms
understated
modest
sincere
verb
Definition
To exaggerate or make something seem more important or serious than it really is.
Example
The media often overblown the impact of minor events.
Tense Forms
Past: overblew
Past Participle: overblown
Conversation
Did you see that article about the new movie?
Yeah, I thought the reviews were a bit overblown for what it was.
I agree, they made it sound like a masterpiece!
Root Explanation
Overblown → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "blown" (the past participle of "blow", meaning to be inflated or expanded). The word "overblown" describes something that has been excessively inflated or exaggerated beyond its normal limits.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'blown up' too much ('blown') and then 'excessively' ('over-') — that's why overblown means something that is exaggerated.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.