Search from various English teachers...
Bean
“ go too far" and "go overboard" they are similar. Can they be interchangeable?
“ go too far" and "go overboard" they are similar. Can they be interchangeable?
Apr 30, 2019 2:19 AM
Answers · 8
1
They can be interchangeable, but there is a slight difference in meaning.
"go overboard" is the same as "go too far" in that you are overreacting, but there is also a sense with "go overboard" that you are "overexcited" or you are being a somewhat irrational in your reasons for overreacting. Whereas, with 'go to far' you are also overreacting, BUT you are not necessarily being irrational or overexcited.
April 30, 2019
The two phrases are very similar in meaning but have slightly different connotations. They both indicate something that is done in excess.
"To go overboard" indicates that an action or activity is done in excess, generally with a sense of frivolity, superfluity or mindless exaggeration
Example: "She went overboard with the Christmas decorations this year."
"To go too far" also indicates an action done in excess but more with a sense of provocation, earnestness or unnecessary intensity
Example: "He went too far when he insulted my mother."
As a general rule, I would say that "to go overboard" has a lighter, more "silly" connotation whilst "to go too far" bears a greater sense of negative moral judgement
April 30, 2019
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Bean
Language Skills
Chinese (Mandarin), English
Learning Language
English
Articles You May Also Like

Same Word, Different Meaning: American, British, and South African English
12 likes · 10 Comments

How to Sound Confident in English (Even When You’re Nervous)
13 likes · 11 Comments

Marketing Vocabulary and Phrases for Business English Learners
10 likes · 6 Comments
More articles