inordinate
/in'ɔ:dinit/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Exceeding reasonable or normal limits; excessive: Describes something that is much greater in amount, degree, or intensity than what is considered usual, proper, or necessary.
- Unrestrained or irregular: Can describe something that lacks proper regulation or moderation.
Usage
The adjective "inordinate" is used to modify nouns, indicating an extreme or unreasonable degree. It often carries a negative connotation of excessiveness that is undesirable or problematic. It is a formal word commonly found in written English.
Examples
- Adjective:
- She spent an inordinate amount of time on minor details, delaying the entire project.
- The CEO was criticized for his inordinate salary compared to the average worker's pay.
- He has an inordinate fondness for chocolate, eating it every day.
Advanced Usage
- "inordinate length/delay/amount": A common collocation emphasizing excessive duration, time, or quantity.
- The meeting dragged on to an inordinate length.
- "inordinate desire/passion": Used to describe an unusually strong and potentially uncontrollable feeling.
- His inordinate ambition led him to make unethical choices.
Variants and Related Words
- Inordinately (adverb): To an excessive or unreasonable degree.
- The task was inordinately difficult.
- Inordinateness (noun): The state or quality of being excessive (rarely used).
Synonyms
- Excessive: More than is necessary, normal, or desirable.
- Immoderate: Not sensible or restrained; excessive.
- Unreasonable: Not guided by or based on good sense; excessive.
- Undue: Unwarranted or inappropriate because excessive or disproportionate.
Antonyms
- Moderate: Average in amount, intensity, or quality; not extreme.
- Reasonable: Based on good sense; fair and sensible.
- Ordinary: With no special or distinctive features; normal.
Idioms and Phrases
- "An inordinate amount of": A very common phrase used to criticize or highlight an excessive quantity of something (time, money, effort, etc.).
- The bureaucracy requires an inordinate amount of paperwork for a simple permit.
Adjective
-
beyond normal limits
-
excessive charges
-
a book of inordinate length
-
his dress stops just short of undue elegance
-
unreasonable demands
-
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ tương tự
Từ chứa "inordinate"
Từ có nhắc đến "inordinate"
