What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overdose
Example
He was rushed to the hospital after an overdose of painkillers. [overdose: noun]
Example
She accidentally overdosed on sleeping pills and had to be hospitalized. [overdosed: past tense verb]
excess
Example
The excess food was donated to a local shelter. [excess: noun]
Example
His excessive drinking led to health problems. [excessive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excess is more commonly used than overdose in everyday language, as it can be applied to a wider range of situations. Overdose is more specific and is typically only used in the context of drugs or medications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overdose and excess?
Both overdose and excess can be used in formal and informal contexts, but overdose is more likely to be used in medical or technical settings.
