Reading Theme:
Excessive: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：too much (excessive)
excessive
/ɪkˈsesɪv/
adj.
more than is necessary or reasonable, often causing problems or harm.
too much
➕
/ˌtuː ˈmʌtʃ/
adj.
Describes an amount or degree that surpasses what is normal, necessary, or desirable, often implying a negative consequence.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'excedere' (to go beyond) + '-ive' (adjective-forming suffix).
💡 Mnemonic
EXtra CESSpool is IVEry bad. Think of something going BEYOND (ex-) the acceptable limit, creating a mess.
📖 Example
The doctor warned him that excessive consumption of sugary drinks could lead to health issues.
The doctor warned him that drinking too many sugary beverages could cause health problems.
🔗 Collocations
excessive consumption – the act of using or eating too much of something
excessive amount – a quantity that is more than needed or appropriate
excessive force – using more physical power than is justified in a situation
🔄 Synonyms
immoderate (adj.) – not within reasonable limits; lacking restraint.
inordinate (adj.) – unusually or disproportionately large; excessive.
overabundant (adj.) – existing in quantities that are more than adequate; excessive.
🚫 Antonyms
moderate (adj.) – average in amount, intensity, or degree; not extreme.
insufficient (adj.) – not enough; inadequate.
scarce (adj.) – insufficient for the demand; in short supply.
🌱 Derivatives
excess (n.) – an amount that is more than necessary, permitted, or desirable.
excessively (adv.) – to a greater degree or in greater amounts than is necessary, normal, or desirable.
📖 Cultural Story
Originates from Latin 'excessus', past participle of 'excedere' (ex- 'out' + cedere 'go'). Entered English via Old French 'excessif'. Historically used in legal and moral contexts to denote transgression of limits. Today, it's frequently used in discussions about consumerism, environmental impact ('excessive waste'), and work-life balance.
Meaning 2：unreasonable (excessive)
excessive
/ɪkˈsesɪv/
adj.
(of behavior, demands, etc.) going beyond what is acceptable or fair; too much or too severe.
unreasonable
➕
/ʌnˈriːznəbl/
adj.
Refers to behavior, demands, or standards that go beyond what is considered acceptable, fair, or appropriate, often seeming too severe or strict.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Some parents impose excessive rules on their teenagers, which can harm their relationship.
Some parents enforce an unreasonable number of rules on their teenage children, which can damage their relationship.
🔗 Collocations
excessive demands – requests or requirements that are too great or severe
excessive control – exercising an unreasonable degree of authority or influence
excessive punishment – a penalty that is disproportionately severe for the offense
🔄 Synonyms
extreme (adj.) – reaching a high or the highest degree; very severe.
unreasonable (adj.) – not guided by or based on good sense; beyond what is acceptable.
draconian (adj.) – excessively harsh and severe (often referring to laws or rules).
🚫 Antonyms
reasonable (adj.) – based on good sense; fair and sensible.
lenient (adj.) – more merciful or tolerant than expected; not strict.
modest (adj.) – not excessive or extreme; moderate.
🌱 Derivatives
excessiveness (n.) – the quality or state of being excessive.
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