overshoot
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərˌʃut/
KK: /ˈoʊvərˌʃut/
intransitive verb
Definition
To go beyond a target or limit, often by a large amount.
Example
The rocket overshot its intended landing zone and landed in the ocean.
Tense Forms
Past: overshot
Past Participle: overshot
Conversation
Did you see how far he threw that ball?
Yeah, it was impressive, but he really seemed to overshoot it.
I know, right? I thought it would land closer to the target.
Me too! Sometimes, less really is more.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overreach
overrun
exceed
Antonyms
fallshort
underreach
miss
transitive verb
Definition
To go further than intended or to exceed a limit.
Example
The car overshot the exit and had to turn around.
Tense Forms
Past: overshot
Past Participle: overshot
Conversation
Did you see how the car overshot the turn yesterday?
Yeah, I couldn't believe it!
I thought they were going to hit the fence for sure.
Root Explanation
Overshoot is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or beyond) and "shoot" (from Old English "sceotan", meaning to throw or propel). The word describes the act of propelling something beyond its intended target or limit.
Memory Tip
Think of going 'beyond' ('over-') a target when you 'throw' ('shoot') something — that's why overshoot means to go past the mark.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.