# overreach

/ˈoʊvɝˌɹitʃ/ (US) · /ˌəʊvəɹˈiːtʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/overreach
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

to try to do more than you can or should do, often by using too much power or control. You use this when someone goes past a safe or fair limit.

For teachers: to exceed proper limits of authority, ability, or scope in attempting something. Often implies overextension that risks failure or backlash.

## Examples

- She does not overreach when she sets her goals.
- The startup overreached by opening three new offices before its main product earned a profit.
- By promising deep tax cuts while expanding public spending, the government overreached, creating expectations it could not meet without heavy borrowing.

## Usage notes

- Used both transitively and intransitively; reflexive 'overreach oneself' is common, especially to describe excessive ambition.

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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.