Collocations for "overly"
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word "overly" in context.
WordReference English Collocations © 2025
overly
ⓘMost examples are given in US English. We have labeled exceptions as UK.adv
- overly [complex, complicated, broad] [answers, questions]
- (it) [is, should] not be overly complicated
- overly [aggressive, eager, sensitive, cautious]
- overly [worried, concerned, curious, anxious] (about)
- overly [obsessed, preoccupied] with
- an overly-optimistic [prediction, result, hope]
- [be, get, feel] overly optimistic
- try not to be overly optimistic (about)
- am not overly concerned about [it]
- an overly-cautious [lawyer, attorney, driver]
- an overly-obsessed [boss, parent, cleaner, housekeeper]
- (not) overly familiar with (the subject)
- overly friendly with [strangers, his ex-wife]
- an overly friendly [cat, dog, neighbor]
- (not) overly [enthusiastic, excited] about [the idea of, soccer]
- UK: I'm (not) overly keen (on)
'overly' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):
aggressive
- ambitious
- clown
- concerned
- critical
- demanding
- enthusiastic
- familiar
- made
- optimistic
- protective
- sensitive
- stressful