overreact
verb (used without object)
to react or respond more strongly than is necessary or appropriate.
have overreacted
-
present perfectof overreact.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Investors have overreacted to energy-driven swings in inflation, in his view, and the slow-moving part of inflation has been coming down gradually, obscured by high-frequency moves in energy prices.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 11, 2026
Michael Sansoterra, chief investment officer at Silvant Capital Management, thinks investors have overreacted.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 7, 2025
“We may have overreacted, but who knows,” he said.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 4, 2022
Districts have faced lawsuits from parents claiming schools have overreacted and unfairly punished students for harmless remarks or actions or underreacted to tragic consequences.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 18, 2021
“I may have overreacted there,” he said, and he chuckled as a bolt of awkward energy surged in his chest.
From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro
