"overlarge" vs "over-enlarged"

Question

"overlarge" vs "over-enlarged"

Both "over-enlarged" and "overlarge" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Over-enlarged" is used when something has been excessively enlarged beyond a normal size, while "overlarge" is used to describe something that is excessively large or too large for a particular purpose.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

Use "overlarge" when describing something that is excessively large or too large for its intended purpose or context.

Examples:

The overlarge suitcase wouldn't fit in the overhead compartment.
The overlarge portion of food was too much for one person to eat.
The overlarge chair dominated the small living room.
The overlarge crowd made it difficult to move through the street.
The overlarge budget exceeded the company's financial capabilities.

Alternatives:

excessively large
too large
larger than necessary
bigger than required
oversized

Use "over-enlarged" when referring to something that has been enlarged excessively, beyond a normal or expected size.

Examples:

The over-enlarged photo lost its clarity and sharpness.
The over-enlarged balloon popped due to the pressure.
The over-enlarged font made the text difficult to read.
The over-enlarged painting distorted the original image.
The over-enlarged map failed to show the details clearly.

Alternatives:

excessively enlarged
enlarged beyond normal size
enlarged to an excessive degree
enlarged excessively
enlarged beyond expectation

Answer 1

overlarge

This phrase is correct and is used to describe something that is excessively large or too large for a particular purpose.

Answer 2

over-enlarged

This phrase is correct and is used to describe something that has been excessively enlarged beyond a normal size.

"overlarge" vs "over-enlarged"

overlarge

over-enlarged

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