Overshoot

usgb/ˌəʊvərˈʃuːt/
verb

To go past an intended point or limit.

The plane overshot the runway when it was landing.
Visual representation of "overshoot" - To go past an intended point or limit

Often appears as...

  • overshoot the target
  • overshoot the mark
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "overshoot"
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Unexpected Outcome

Overshoot implies a result that was not planned or desired, often leading to a need for correction.

Illustration for Unexpected Outcome
The spacecraft overshot its intended orbit, causing mission control to recalculate.
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Measure of Excess

Overshoot often measures the extent by which something exceeded limits, in distance, time, or quantity.

Illustration for Measure of Excess
He overshot his estimation by two hours, arriving far too early.
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Negative Connotation

Overshoot generally has a negative connotation, suggesting error or miscalculation.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The team overestimated their abilities and overshot the project deadline.
Visual representation of the word "Overshoot"

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