excess

The word “excess” means an amount beyond what is normal, necessary, or allowed. In plain terms, too much of something, or the amount left over past a limit.

“Excess” is pronounced EHK-sehs (/ˈɛksɛs/ in IPA).

Here is “excess” used in a sentence: “Any excess of the deposit will be refunded.”

Words with a similar meaning to “excess” include abundance, acrasia, acrasy, excessiveness, exuberance and copiousness.

The opposite of “excess” — its antonyms — are lack and deficiency.

Depending on how it is used, “excess” can be a noun and an adjective.

The word “excess” comes from Latin. From Old French exces, from Latin excessus, "a going beyond," from excedere (see "exceed").

“Excess” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

A surplus is an extra amount left over, often neutral or even beneficial, such as a budget surplus. "Excess" carries a stronger sense of being more than is needed, allowed, or good for you, and can imply waste or overindulgence.

These are commonly confused because they sound alike. "Excess" means an amount beyond what is normal or necessary, while "access" means the means or right to enter or use something. They are unrelated in meaning.

Beyond meaning a surplus amount, "excess" can mean overindulgence, especially in eating or drinking. Phrases like "a life of excess" or "drinking to excess" use this sense to suggest a lack of restraint.