Overreaction

usgb/ˌəʊvəriˈækʃn/
noun

A reaction that is more extreme or severe than is necessary.

His angry outburst was an overreaction to the small mistake she had made.
Visual representation of "overreaction" - A reaction that is more extreme or severe than is necessary

Often appears as...

  • sudden overreaction
  • emotional overreaction
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "overreaction"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Context Matters

Consider the situation carefully to determine if a response is an overreaction or appropriate.

Illustration for Context Matters
Labeling the peaceful protest as an overreaction lacks understanding of the cause.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Intensity

Overreaction often involves strong emotions that aren't proportional to the situation.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
She cried all night over a tiny scratch on her car, a clear overreaction.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Negative

Overreaction can be positive, such as excessive gratitude for a small favor.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
His effusive thank-you note for borrowing a pen seemed like an overreaction.
Visual representation of the word "Overreaction"

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