What does “Over the top” mean?
"Over the top" means that something is excessive or exaggerated.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The decorations at the party were over the top with glitter and lights.
Example
Her reaction to winning the award was over the top and filled with tears and screams.
Example
The price of the designer handbag was over the top and way beyond my budget
Is “Over the top” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Over the top” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Over the top” effectively in context?
You can use "Over the top" to describe something that is excessive or exaggerated. It is often used to express surprise, disbelief, or criticism towards something that is considered too much. For example, if someone throws a party with extravagant decorations, you might say, 'The decorations at the party were "over the top" with glitter and lights.'
- 1Party
The decorations at the party were over the top with glitter and lights.
- 2Emotional Reaction
Her reaction to winning the award was over the top and filled with tears and screams.
- 3Price
The price of the designer handbag was over the top and way beyond my budget.
Similar phrases to “Over the top”:
Shocking or extreme, beyond what is considered acceptable
Example
The price of the concert tickets was outrageous.
More than what is necessary or reasonable
Example
He has an excessive amount of clothes in his closet.
An excessive or unnecessary amount or degree of something
Example
Using three different sauces on the pizza was overkill.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Over the top” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Over the top" is unknown.
Is “Over the top” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Over the top" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe something that is excessive, exaggerated, or beyond what is considered normal or reasonable.
What tone does “Over the top” have?
"Over the top" conveys a tone of surprise, disbelief, or criticism. It is often used to express astonishment or disapproval towards something that is considered excessive or exaggerated.
Can “Over the top” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Over the top" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts to describe excessive or exaggerated situations. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The decorations at the party were "over the top".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's "over the top"!' to express astonishment.
