过头

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"过头" (guòtóu) is a colloquial expression used to describe something that is excessive or goes beyond an appropriate limit. It often carries a negative connotation, implying that an action, behavior, or situation has surpassed what is reasonable or acceptable.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used to criticize someone's behavior, comments, or efforts when they are perceived as too extreme or exaggerated. For example, "批评过头" means criticizing too harshly.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuances

Using "过头" suggests the speaker thinks the excessiveness is inappropriate or unwelcome. It is informal and common in spoken Chinese. Avoid using it in very formal writing.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "过头" with "过度" (guòdù), which is more formal and often used in written language to mean "excessive" or "over-" in a more neutral or technical sense.

Example Sentences

What you're doing is a bit over the top; you should know when to stop.

His criticism was a bit excessive, making people feel uncomfortable.

The decoration for this party is a bit overdone; there are too many