过度

• Pinyin: guò dù
• Hanzi breakdown: 过 = to pass/exceed; 度 = degree/measure

Meaning

Excessive; over-; too much. Beyond the proper or normal limit.

Used to describe something that exceeds reasonable bounds. Often carries a negative connotation implying harm or inappropriateness. Common in health, behavior, and resource contexts.

Examples

1. 过度使用手机会影响视力。 Excessive use of mobile phones can affect eyesight.
2. 他因为过度劳累而病倒了。 He fell ill from overwork.
3. 过度消费会导致经济问题。 Excessive consumption can lead to economic problems.

Usage Guide

Context: health, behavior, warning, analysis

Tone: cautionary

Do Say

• 不要过度紧张。(Don't be overly nervous.)
• 过度饮酒对身体不好。(Excessive drinking is bad for your health.)

Don't Say

• 过度好 (过度 has negative implications — use 太 or 非常 for neutral/positive excess)

Origin & History

Compound of 过 (to exceed, pass) + 度 (degree, measure), meaning exceeding the proper measure.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal