overrefined
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌoʊvərɪˈfaɪnd/
KK: /oʊvərɪˈfaɪnd/
adjective
Definition
Made too pure or perfect, often to the point of losing natural qualities or becoming overly complicated.
Example
The overrefined design of the building made it look cold and uninviting.
Conversation
Have you tried that new restaurant downtown?
Not yet, but I heard their menu is a bit overrefined.
Yeah, sometimes simpler dishes taste better than overrefined ones.
I agree! I prefer a good burger over fancy presentations any day.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
excessive
meticulous
sophisticated
Antonyms
crude
simple
rough
verb
Definition
To make something excessively pure or refined, often to the point where it loses its original character or value.
Example
The artist's work became overrefined, losing the raw emotion that made it special.
Tense Forms
Past: overrefined
Past Participle: overrefined
Conversation
Did you know that he overrefined his cooking style recently?
Really? I thought he was already a great chef.
Yeah, but now he makes everything so complicated.
Root Explanation
Overrefined → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "refined" (from Latin "refinire", meaning to purify or improve). The word "overrefined" means excessively purified or improved to the point of being artificial or lacking in substance.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is made 'excessively' ('over-') 'pure' or 'improved' ('refinire') — that's why overrefined means too much refinement.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.