overdo

Everyday

1. To do something too much or use too much of something: "Don't overdo the salt." tree →
2. To work or exercise too hard and get very tired: "Don't overdo it." tree →
3. To cook food too long, so it is dry or burnt (usually "overdone"). tree →

In the lessons

In health and sport lessons, "don't overdo it" means rest and do not push your body too hard. In cooking, overdone meat or vegetables are cooked too long. In writing, teachers warn you not to overdo exclamation marks or describing words. The phrase "overdo it" is very common.

Examples

• Don't overdo it on your first day back after being ill. tree →
• The steak was overdone and as hard as a shoe. tree →
• She overdid the glitter, and now the whole card sparkles. tree →
• Try not to overdo the exclamation marks in your story!!! tree →
• I overdid the running and my legs ached all week. tree →
• A little perfume is nice, but don't overdo it. tree →

Note

Irregular like "do": overdo, overdoes, overdid, overdone. Do not confuse with "overdue" (late: an overdue library book). "Overdone" can mean cooked too long or done too much.