overuse
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈoʊvərˌjuːs/
KK: /ˈoʊvərˌjus/
noun
Definition
The act of using something too much or more than is necessary.
Example
The overuse of plastic can harm the environment.
Conversation
Have you noticed how much time we spend on our phones lately?
Yeah, it's kind of crazy, isn't it?
I think we might be at risk of overuse with all this screen time.
Definitely! We should try to limit it a bit more.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
excess
abuse
misuse
Antonyms
moderation
restraint
sparing
transitive verb
Definition
To use something too much or more than is necessary.
Example
If you overuse your phone, it can lead to eye strain.
Tense Forms
Past: overused
Past Participle: overused
Conversation
I think I might overuse my phone these days.
Yeah, it can be easy to get carried away with it.
I really need to find a way to use it less.
Root Explanation
Overuse → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "use" (from Old French *user*, meaning to employ or utilize). The word "overuse" means to use something excessively or beyond its intended limits.
Memory Tip
Think of using something 'excessively' ('over-') — that's why overuse means to use something too much.
Visually Confused Words
obverse
verse