over-measure

A baker accidentally adds an over-measure of flour to his mixing bowl.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Excess quantity: "over-measure" refers to an amount that exceeds what is necessary, expected, or standard; a surplus or extra portion.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The baker gave us an over-measure of flour, enough for an extra loaf. (An amount exceeding the required quantity.)
  • The report noted an over-measure of resources allocated to the project, leading to waste. (A surplus beyond what was needed.)

Advanced Usage

• "to give over-measure": to provide more than the required or usual amount.

  • The generous host gave over-measure of wine to all his guests. (He offered an extra, abundant serving.)

• "over-measure of caution": an excessive degree of carefulness.

  • His over-measure of caution made him miss the opportunity. (Too much carefulness was counterproductive.)

Variants and Related Words

• Overmeasure (n): Alternative spelling; same meaning as "over-measure".

  • The shipment contained an overmeasure of goods. (An excess of items.)

• Overmeasurement (n): The act or result of measuring in excess.

  • Overmeasurement of the fabric led to a surplus of material. (Measuring too much.)

Synonyms

• Surplus: an amount that is more than what is needed.
• Excess: an amount beyond the usual or necessary limit.
• Superfluity: an unnecessarily large amount.

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly associated with "over-measure" as a noun. However, the verb phrase "to measure over" can be used:
  • She measured over the sugar by a teaspoon. (She added an extra amount beyond the required measure.)

Related Idioms

• "to have an over-measure of something": to possess an excessive amount of a quality or thing.

  • He has an over-measure of patience, tolerating even the rudest remarks. (He has an extreme amount of patience.)

• "in over-measure": in an abundant or excessive way.

  • The praise was given in over-measure, almost to the point of flattery. (Excessive praise.)