Overextension

B2 16+

Pronunciation: /oʊvərɪkˈstɛnʃən/

Definitions of overextension

noun a linguistic phenomenon in which a word or phrase is used in a broader context than is appropriate

Example Sentences

A1 Children often go through a phase of overextension when learning new words.

A2 In language acquisition, overextension refers to the tendency of young children to apply a word to a broader range of objects than adults would.

B1 Overextension can sometimes lead to misunderstandings in communication, especially when a word is used in a non-standard way.

B2 Linguists study overextension as a natural part of language development and evolution.

C1 The phenomenon of overextension in language can provide insights into how words and meanings change over time.

C2 Researchers have conducted experiments to explore the cognitive processes involved in overextension and its implications for linguistic theory.

Examples of overextension in a Sentence

formal The concept of overextension in linguistics refers to the inappropriate use of a word or phrase beyond its accepted meanings.

informal She tends to overextend herself by taking on too many projects at once.

slang Don't overextend your budget by splurging on unnecessary items.

figurative In relationships, emotional overextension can lead to burnout and resentment.

Grammatical Forms of overextension

past tense

overextended

plural

overextensions

comparative

more overextended

superlative

most overextended

present tense

overextend

future tense

will overextend

perfect tense

have overextended

continuous tense

is overextending

singular

overextension

positive degree

overextension

infinitive

to overextend

gerund

overextending

participle

overextended

Origin and Evolution of overextension

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'overextension' originated from the Latin word 'extendere' which means to stretch out or extend.
Evolution of the word: Initially used in a literal sense to describe something being stretched beyond its normal limits, over time, the word 'overextension' has evolved to also refer to situations where something is taken too far or pushed beyond its intended boundaries.