overfond
/'ouvə'fɔnd/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: Excessively fond; having or showing an exaggerated or unreasonable affection or liking for someone or something.
Usage
The adjective "overfond" describes a degree of fondness that is considered too great, often to the point of being unwise, indulgent, or detrimental. It is typically used to modify a person or their behavior and is often followed by the preposition "of."
Examples
- Parents can sometimes be overfond of praising their children for every small thing.
- He was overfond of rich desserts, which was not good for his health.
- The critic argued that the director was overfond of using slow-motion shots in the film.
Advanced Usage
- "Overfond of": This is the standard collocation. It is used to specify the object of the excessive fondness.
- She is overfond of giving unsolicited advice.
- The term can imply a lack of critical judgment or an inability to see faults due to excessive affection.
- He is overfond of his own ideas and rarely listens to feedback.
Variants and Related Words
- Fond (adj): Having an affection or liking for. (e.g., )
- Overindulgent (adj): Excessively lenient or generous. (While similar, "overindulgent" focuses more on allowing excessive behavior, whereas "overfond" focuses on the feeling of affection itself.)
Synonyms
- Excessively affectionate
- Doting (often implies foolish or excessive fondness, especially from an older person)
- Indulgent (focuses more on allowing desires)
Antonyms
- Indifferent
- Averse
- Disdainful