Definition

Having more education, skills, or experience than what is needed for a specific job or position.

Example

She felt overqualified for the entry-level position, as she had a master's degree and several years of experience.

Conversation

I heard you didn't get that job you applied for.

Yeah, they said I was too overqualified for the position.

That's surprising! I thought being skilled would be an advantage.

You'd think so, but sometimes they want someone with less experience.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overqualified → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "qualified" (from Latin "qualificare", meaning to make fit or to qualify). The word "overqualified" means having qualifications that exceed what is necessary for a particular job or role.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'excessively' ('over-') 'fit' or 'qualified' for a job — that's why overqualified means having more qualifications than needed.

Visually Confused Words