Definition

To exaggerate or do something too much, especially in acting or performance.

Example

The actor tends to overplay his character, making it less believable.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you think the actor really overplay that scene in the movie?

Definitely! It felt a bit too dramatic for my taste.

Yeah, I think sometimes they just try too hard to impress us.

Exactly! Subtlety can be so much more powerful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To present something in a way that is too exaggerated or excessive, often making it seem more important or dramatic than it really is.

Example

The actor tends to overplay his emotions, making the scene feel unrealistic.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he tends to overplay his emotions in that scene?

Yeah, it was a bit much, wasn't it?

I think sometimes he just needs to tone it down a little.

Root Explanation

Overplay → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or too much) and "play" (from Old English "plegian", meaning to engage in activity for enjoyment). The word "overplay" means to play excessively or to exaggerate in performance.

Memory Tip

Think of doing something 'too much' ('over-') when you 'play' — that's why overplay means to play excessively.

Visually Confused Words