Overstepping Meaning in English

word · lemma: overstep

US

ˈoʊvɝˌstɛpɪŋ

OH-ver-STEP-ing

UK

ˌəʊvəstˈɛpɪŋ

oh-vuh-STEP-ing

Definition

Going beyond accepted limits, boundaries, or rules, especially when it's considered inappropriate or disrespectful.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used in a negative context, often with 'boundaries', 'authority', or 'limits'. Formal or semi-formal. Common mistake: do not confuse with simple 'step' or 'move'.

• Spanish: excederse - sobrepasar límites
• Portuguese (BR): exceder - ultrapassar limites
• Portuguese (PT): exceder - ultrapassar limites
• Chinese (Simplified): 越界 - 超越界限
• Chinese (Traditional): 越界 - 超越界限
• Hindi: सीमा पार करना
• Arabic: تجاوز الحدود
• Bengali: সীমা লঙ্ঘন করা - অধিকারে হস্তক্ষেপ করা
• Russian: переходить границы - превышать полномочия
• Japanese: 越権行為をする - 出しゃばる
• Vietnamese: vượt quá giới hạn - đi quá giới hạn
• Korean: 선을 넘다 - 권한을 넘다
• Turkish: sınırı aşmak - haddini aşmak
• Urdu: حد سے بڑھ جانا - اختیار سے تجاوز کرنا
• Indonesian: melewati batas - melampaui wewenang

Example Sentences

He was overstepping when he gave orders to his boss.

basic

The student is overstepping by interrupting the teacher.

basic

Please tell me if I am overstepping.

basic

I don’t want to risk overstepping, so I’ll let you decide.

natural

She apologized for overstepping during the discussion.

natural

If you feel like I'm overstepping, just let me know—it's not my intention.

natural