verb

overthink

Overthink (verb) means to think about something for too long or too hard, often making a simple decision harder than it needs to be. Example: “Don't overthink it — just send the email.”

verb

To think about something for too long or too hard, often making a simple decision harder than it needs to be.

"Don't overthink it — just send the email."

"She overthought every word of her text message."

How to use overthink

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo worry over a decision or problem far more than is useful.

Memory tip

Often used as advice: "don't overthink it," meaning trust your first instinct.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

tend to overthink overthink things overthink a decision

Word forms

overthought past tense, overthought past tense, overthinks singular, overthinks singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “overthink” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Don't _____ it — just send the email.

Etymology

From Old English oferþenċan, "to think over, consider," built from over- + think.

Origin: Old English

Frequently asked questions

What does “overthink” mean?

The word “overthink” means to think about something for too long or too hard, often making a simple decision harder than it needs to be. In plain terms, to worry over a decision or problem far more than is useful.

How do you use “overthink” in a sentence?

Here is “overthink” used in a sentence: “Don't overthink it — just send the email.”

What part of speech is “overthink”?

“Overthink” is a verb.

Where does the word “overthink” come from?

The word “overthink” comes from Old English. From Old English oferþenċan, "to think over, consider," built from over- + think.