overuse
verb (used with object)
to use too much or too often.
have overused
-
present perfectof overuse.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.
Pessimists have overused the image of Wile E. Coyote running off a cliff and not falling until after doing a double-take.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 29, 2026
If you have overused or omitted any of these elements, revise accordingly, making sure that ideas flow smoothly.
From Textbooks ● Dec. 21, 2021
They concede that hospitals may have overused ventilators in the early months of the pandemic.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 15, 2021
“Magical” is a word your correspondents have overused in recent days as they’ve struggled, and most often failed, to contain their excitement at Team GB’s golden streak.
From Time ● Aug. 9, 2012
The evidence suggests that they have overused the past.
From Time Magazine Archive
