Reading Theme:
Excess: Definition, Usage & Real-Life Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：too much amount (excess)
excess
/ɪkˈses/
n.
An amount of something that is more than what is needed, normal, or suitable.
too much amount
➕
/tuː mʌtʃ əˈmaʊnt/
n.
This refers to a quantity that is greater than what is necessary, normal, or suitable.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'excessus', from 'ex-' (out) + 'cedere' (to go), meaning to exceed.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'EX' as extra and 'CESS' as cesspool; excess is like an overflow of extra.
📖 Example
The doctor warned him that excess sugar in his diet could lead to health problems.
The doctor cautioned that consuming too much sugar might cause health issues.
🔗 Collocations
in excess – in an amount that is more than necessary or allowed
excess weight – body weight that is above the healthy range
excess of – a larger amount than what is needed or typical
🔄 Synonyms
surplus (n.) – an amount left over when requirements have been met
overabundance (n.) – a quantity that is more than enough
glut (n.) – an excessively large supply
🚫 Antonyms
deficiency (n.) – a lack or shortage of something needed
shortage (n.) – a situation where there is not enough of something
lack (n.) – the state of being without or not having enough
🌱 Derivatives
excessive (adj.) – more than is necessary, normal, or desirable
excessively (adv.) – to a greater degree than is necessary or normal
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'excessus', meaning 'a departure' or 'exceeding'. In modern English, it's commonly used in finance (e.g., excess profit) and health (e.g., excess weight) to denote surpassing limits.
Meaning 2：going too far (excess)
excess
/ɪkˈses/
n.
A behavior or state that goes beyond what is reasonable, proper, or acceptable.
going too far
➕
/ˈɡoʊɪŋ tuː fɑːr/
n.
This describes a behavior or condition that exceeds reasonable, proper, or acceptable boundaries.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
His enthusiasm is good, but shouting during the quiet study session was an excess.
While his eagerness is positive, yelling in the silent study time was an overstep.
🔗 Collocations
to excess – to an extreme degree that is not advisable
excess of zeal – too much enthusiasm that becomes inappropriate
in moderation, not excess – within reasonable limits, avoiding extremes
🔄 Synonyms
immoderation (n.) – lack of moderation; excessiveness
extravagance (n.) – excessive or unnecessary expenditure or behavior
overindulgence (n.) – excessive indulgence in desires
🚫 Antonyms
moderation (n.) – the avoidance of excess or extremes
restraint (n.) – self-control; holding back from excess
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