Describing a person or action marked by an excessive and often unnecessary degree of caution, attention to detail, or concern about potential risks or mistakes. This behavior can stem from anxiety, perfectionism, or a desire to avoid any perceived negative consequences, leading to a stifling of spontaneity, creativity, and efficiency. Overcarefulness can manifest in a multitude of contexts, ranging from decision-making processes to everyday interactions. It's distinguished from appropriate caution by its degree and the potential for hindering progress or causing undue stress and worry. The individual might be hesitant or paralyzed when faced with any choice, resulting in missed opportunities.
Overcareful meaning with examples
- He was overcareful in his investment strategy, refusing to take any calculated risks, ultimately leading to only modest returns compared to his peers. He spent countless hours analyzing market trends and economic indicators, paralyzed by the fear of losing money. This led to an abundance of missed prospects. His overcareful approach stifled his ability to capitalize on potentially high-reward opportunities.
- The project manager's overcareful planning created bureaucratic bottlenecks, which slowed the workflow and caused deadlines to be missed. She meticulously reviewed every document, scrutinized every detail, and insisted on multiple layers of approvals. While intended to ensure quality, her overcareful approach bred frustration among the team. The team missed project timelines and overall, the client was not satisfied.
- She was overcareful in her interactions with her colleagues, afraid of saying the wrong thing or offending someone. She carefully chose her words, which could be perceived as aloof or insincere, to not be misinterpreted. Her fear of making a social faux pas prevented her from forming genuine connections and building strong working relationships, leaving the group to struggle in terms of communication.
- The chef was overcareful with the seasoning, afraid of making the dish too salty, which resulted in bland and uninspired food. He meticulously measured and re-measured ingredients, tasting frequently and making constant adjustments. This stifled the creative process and lacked the flavour he was hoping to achieve. Guests complained about the tasteless dish and a missed dining experience.
Overcareful Synonyms
cautious circumspect fastidious fussy hypercautious meticulous overcautious painstaking prudent scrupulousOvercareful Antonyms
adventurous bold careless daring imprudent negligent rash recklessOvercareful Crossword Answers
10 Letters
TOOCAREFUL