# inordinate

/ˌɪˈnɔɹdənɪt/ (US) · /ɪnˈɔːdɪnət/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inordinate
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

much too large or too much, more than is reasonable or normal. You use it when something goes past a fair limit.

For teachers: excessively large in amount, degree, or intensity, beyond what is reasonable or justified. Often collocates with abstract nouns such as delay, pride, or fondness.

## Examples

- He spends an inordinate amount of time on his phone.
- The project faces an inordinate delay because approvals take weeks at each stage.
- Despite its modest budget, the committee devoted an inordinate share of its sessions to procedural disputes, leaving substantive policy questions largely unexamined.

## Synonyms

excessive, unreasonable, undue, disproportionate, immoderate

## Antonyms

reasonable, moderate

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; often modifies abstract nouns of amount, time, or desire.

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