ENGLISH
REFERENCE

excessive

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ɪkˈsɛsɪv// UK //ɛksˈɛsɪv// ex·ces·sive General-service

adj. much more than what is necessary, normal, or allowed. You use this to describe something that is too much and might cause problems.

adj. exceeding what is usual, proper, or necessary; characterized by an amount that is greater than a reasonable limit.


SIMPLE

The noise from the party was excessive.

CONTEXTUAL

The judge ruled that the police used excessive force when they arrested the suspect.

COMPLEX

While some regulation is necessary for safety, critics argue that excessive bureaucracy often prevents small businesses from growing or hiring new staff.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English excessive, excessif, from Old French excessif, from Medieval Latin excessivus, equivalent to excess + -ive.

Usage

Typically functions as an attributive adjective before a noun, but can also follow linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem'.

Pitfall

He drinks excessive.He drinks excessively.Learners often use the adjective form when an adverb is required to modify a verb.

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