overstep Definition
- 1to go beyond what is considered acceptable or allowed
- 2to exceed a limit or boundary
Using overstep: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "overstep" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company overstepped the boundaries of ethical behavior.
Example
I think you are overstepping your authority.
Example
He overstepped the mark when he insulted his boss.
Example
She felt that her privacy had been overstepped.
overstep Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with overstep
to do something that is not acceptable or to go beyond what is considered reasonable
Example
I think he overstepped the mark when he criticized her appearance.
overstep one's bounds
to go beyond the limits of one's authority or responsibility
Example
I'm afraid you have overstepped your bounds by making that decision without consulting me.
Example
The comedian overstepped the line with his offensive jokes about race and gender.
Summary: overstep in Brief
'Overstep' [ˌəʊvəˈstep] means to exceed what is considered acceptable or allowed, often by violating a limit or boundary. It can refer to ethical behavior, authority, or privacy, as in 'The company overstepped the boundaries of ethical behavior.' 'Overstep' is also used in phrases like 'overstep the mark,' meaning to do something unreasonable, and 'overstep one's bounds,' referring to exceeding one's authority.