# overkill

/ˈoʊvɝˌkɪɫ/ (US) · /ˌəʊvəkˈɪl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/overkill
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a situation where you use more power or force than is actually needed. It is often used when someone does something in a way that is too much or unnecessary.

For teachers: the use of excessive force, power, or resources to achieve a goal. Often implies a lack of restraint or a mismatch between the scale of the action and the requirement.

## Examples

- Using a sledgehammer to crack a nut is a bit of overkill.
- The security team's response to the minor alarm was seen as overkill by the staff.
- While the new software features are impressive, the level of detail provided in the manual is a bit of overkill for most casual users.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.