overstep

[ oh-ver-step ]

verb (used with object)

, o·ver·stepped, o·ver·step·ping.

1. to go beyond; exceed:

   to overstep one's authority.

overstep

/ ˌəʊvəˈstɛp /

verb

1. tr to go beyond (a certain or proper limit)

Word History and Origins

Origin of overstep¹

before 1000; Middle English oversteppen, Old English ofersteppan. See over-, step

Example Sentences

"I always wanted to respect that and not overstep any boundaries. Which I think she was in that way, just like her character on TV."

From BBC

His overstep appeared to have decided the game in Phoenix's favour but he showed nerves of steel to recover the situation.

From BBC

The Democratic controlled state Legislature passed AB 1955 last month after a fiery debate between LGBTQ+ Democrats and Republicans who alleged the policy aimed to drive a wedge between parents and their children and was a governmental overstep.

From Los Angeles Times

But he stressed: “The court can play only a limited role in resolving the situation. It must be careful not to overstep the limits of what it can and should do.”

From BBC

One of the biggest divides is about whether schools overstep boundaries in what is being taught, and whether it is age-appropriate.

From BBC

Related Words

• meddle
• violate