Definition

Describing something that is expressed with too much emphasis or intensity, often in a way that seems exaggerated.

Example

The actor's overemphatic gestures made the performance feel less genuine.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that play last night?

Yeah, it was good, but the lead actor was a bit overemphatic at times.

I thought so too; it felt like he was trying too hard to impress the audience.

Exactly! Sometimes less is more in acting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overemphatic → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "emphatic" (from Greek "emphatikos", meaning expressive or forceful). The word "overemphatic" means excessively forceful or expressive in manner or speech.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'excessive' ('over-') in your 'expressiveness' ('emphatic') — that's why overemphatic means being very forceful in expression.

Visually Confused Words