What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overmaster
Example
The boxer was able to overmaster his opponent in the ring. [overmaster: verb]
Example
She felt overmastered by her fear of heights and couldn't bring herself to climb the ladder. [overmastered: past participle]
overwhelm
Example
I was overwhelmed by the amount of work I had to do for the project. [overwhelmed: past tense]
Example
The team was overwhelmed by the strength of their opponents and lost the game. [overwhelmed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overwhelm is more commonly used than overmaster in everyday language, and is versatile enough to cover a wide range of contexts. Overmaster is less common and more formal, and is typically used in specific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between overmaster and overwhelm?
Overmaster is more formal than overwhelm, and is typically used in academic or literary contexts. Overwhelm is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
