overcorrection

American  

[oh-ver-kuh-rek-shuhn] / ˌoʊ vər kəˈrɛk ʃən /

noun

1. correction beyond what is needed or customary, especially when leading to error; overadjustment.

   The pilot made an overcorrection for headwinds.

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Etymology

Origin of overcorrection

First recorded in 1880–85; over- + correction

Example Sentences

From this letter, I’m gleaning that reckless spending isn’t in your nature — and I don’t want my advice to cause some sort of overcorrection.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 29, 2025

If "Evil Dead Rise" takes an outdated and simplistic view of motherhood, "Clock" is an overcorrection that runs us off the road.

From Salon • May 14, 2023

In hindsight, he revealed, those comments may have been an overcorrection.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 18, 2023

But industry groups worry an overcorrection could leave emergency departments understaffed if the next generation of doctors turn to other specialties and if burnout continues.

From Washington Post • Mar. 17, 2023

He nursed the power carefully, determined not to waste juice through overcorrection.

From Spillthrough by Galouye, Daniel F.