overstep
oh-vuh-STEHP
Overstep (verb) means to go further than is allowed or appropriate; to cross a line. Example: “The manager overstepped her authority by firing him without approval.”
verb
1
To go further than is allowed or appropriate; to cross a line.
"The manager overstepped her authority by firing him without approval."
"Be careful not to overstep when giving feedback to a friend."
How to use overstep
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo go past a limit of behaviour, authority, or good manners.
Common pairings
overstep the mark
overstep boundaries
overstep one's authority
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- oversteps
- Past tense
- overstepped
Fill the gap
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Be careful not to _____ when giving feedback to a friend.
Etymology
From Old English ofersteppan, literally "to step over," built from over- + step.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “overstep” mean?
The word “overstep” means to go further than is allowed or appropriate; to cross a line. In plain terms, to go past a limit of behaviour, authority, or good manners.
How do you pronounce “overstep”?
“Overstep” is pronounced oh-vuh-STEHP (/ˌoʊvɚˈstɛp/ in IPA).
How do you use “overstep” in a sentence?
Here is “overstep” used in a sentence: “The manager overstepped her authority by firing him without approval.”
What part of speech is “overstep”?
“Overstep” is a verb.
Where does the word “overstep” come from?
The word “overstep” comes from Old English. From Old English ofersteppan, literally "to step over," built from over- + step.
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