overextend

[oh-ver-ik-stend]

verb (used with object)

1. to extend, reach, or expand beyond a proper, safe, or reasonable point.

   a company that overextended its credit to diversify.

2. to extend for too long a time.

   to overextend a stay.

3. to obligate (oneself ) to more activities, work, etc., than one has time for or can accomplish well.

Other Word Forms

• overextension noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of overextend¹

First recorded in 1935–40; over- + extend

Example Sentences

While Tuipulotu stays willing to contribute wherever needed, his coaches remain cautious, careful not to overextend him or slow his defensive development.

From Los Angeles Times

"I want to see safeguards that will ensure that assisted dying is not overextended to include those in situations where there are alternative ways to improve the quality of their lives," said Campbell-Savours.

From BBC

Russia is overextended in its nearly three years of war in Ukraine.

From Los Angeles Times

You should also dig into the numbers regardless of the budget percentage to make sure you're not overextending yourself with debt, he added.

From Salon

About 15 hours into “The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom,” I came across a character expressing concern for Princess Zelda: “Is she overextending herself for the sake of the kingdom?”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• drain 
• fatigue 
• frazzle 
• impoverish 
• overwork 
• sap 
• tire out www.thesaurus.com
• use up 
• weaken 
• wear out 
• weary