undue

Everyday

1. (formal) Undue means more than is needed, right or sensible; too much. tree →
2. (old use) Undue can also mean not yet owed or due to be paid. tree →

In the lessons

Common in formal and adult speech: «undue stress», «undue pressure», «without undue delay», «undue attention». In school rules: «do not cause undue noise». It tells the reader the amount is too great or unfair.

Examples

• Try not to put undue pressure on yourself before the test. tree →
• The bus arrived without undue delay. tree →
• The loud phone drew undue attention to him. tree →
• Doctors said there was no cause for undue worry. tree →
• Don't place undue weight on one leg after the sprain. tree →
• The coach gave undue praise to only one player. tree →

Note

Formal. Do not confuse with «unduly» (adverb: «unduly worried») or with «overdue» (late). Sounds like «un-dew».