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

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 notes

In plain EnglishTo go past a limit of behaviour, authority, or good manners.

Common pairings

overstep the mark overstep boundaries overstep one's authority

Word forms

overstepped past tense, oversteps singular

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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.

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

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top pass exceed trespass transcend go past transgress

Related words

go best give head top clear happen die

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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