What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overcertification
Example
Despite having multiple certifications, the candidate was rejected for the job due to overcertification. [overcertification: noun]
Example
The company decided not to hire the applicant because of their overcertification in areas that were not relevant to the job. [overcertification: noun]
overqualification
Example
The company did not hire the candidate because they were overqualified for the position. [overqualified: adjective]
Example
Despite being overqualified, the applicant accepted the job due to personal reasons. [overqualified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overqualification is a more common term than overcertification in everyday language. This is because overqualification is a broader term that can encompass various types of qualifications, while overcertification is limited to certifications only.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overcertification and overqualification?
Both overcertification and overqualification are formal terms that are typically used in professional or academic contexts. However, overqualification is more commonly used in everyday language and is more versatile in terms of formality level.
