What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
superdose
Example
She accidentally superdosed on her medication and had to go to the hospital. [superdose: verb]
Example
Taking a superdose of vitamins can be harmful to your health. [superdose: noun]
overdose
Example
He died from an overdose of heroin. [overdose: noun]
Example
She accidentally overdosed on her prescription medication. [overdosed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overdose is a more commonly used term, especially in the context of drug abuse and addiction. Superdose is a less common term and may not be familiar to many people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between superdose and overdose?
Both superdose and overdose are formal terms used in medical and scientific contexts. However, overdose is more commonly used in everyday language and may be considered more formal than superdose.