ENGLISH
REFERENCE

override

v.
C1 Advanced US //ˈoʊvɝˌɹaɪd// UK //ˌəʊvəɹˈaɪd// over·ride

v. to use your power or authority to change a decision that someone else has already made. It also means to take manual control of an automatic system.

v. to use authority to cancel or nullify a previous decision or action; to interrupt or suspend the operation of an automatic system in favour of manual control.


SIMPLE

The manager decided to override the clerk's decision.

CONTEXTUAL

The pilot had to override the autopilot system when the plane encountered unexpected turbulence.

COMPLEX

In many democratic systems, a legislative body can override a presidential veto if a significant majority of its members vote in favour of the proposed law.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English overriden, from Old English oferrīdan, equivalent to over- + ride. Cognate with Dutch overrijden, German überreiten, Danish override.

Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, such as a decision, a command, or a system.

Pitfall

The decision was overrode by the board.The decision was overridden by the board.The past participle of 'override' is 'overridden', not 'overrode'.

© 2026 English Reference