adjective
excessive
ihk-SEH-sihv
adjective
1
Going beyond a reasonable or acceptable amount; too much.
"The court ruled the fine was excessive for such a minor offence."
How to Use Excessive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMore than is reasonable or necessary.
Common pairings
excessive force
excessive amount
excessive drinking
Word Forms
more excessive comparative, most excessive superlative
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The court ruled the fine was _____ for such a minor offence.
Etymology
From Old French excessif, from Medieval Latin excessivus, built on excess.