too-careful
Definition
- Adjective:
- Excessively or unduly careful: Describes a state of being overly cautious, meticulous, or attentive to detail to a degree that is unnecessary or counterproductive.
Usage
The word "too-careful" is a compound adjective used to modify a noun. It directly criticizes or points out an excess of caution. It is typically used in a descriptive or critical context. - It is often hyphenated when placed before the noun it modifies. - It describes a person, action, or approach that demonstrates more care than is reasonable or beneficial.
Examples
Before a noun:
- His too-careful approach to the project caused significant delays. (His excessively cautious approach...)
- She is a too-careful driver, which sometimes annoys other motorists. (She is an unduly careful driver...)
After a linking verb (like 'be', 'seem', 'become'):
- The instructions were too-careful, making the simple task seem complicated. (The instructions were excessively detailed...)
- He became too-careful after the minor accident. (He became overly cautious...)
Advanced Usage
- "too careful" (without hyphen): When the adjective follows the noun/pronoun it describes, the hyphen is often omitted in modern usage, though the meaning remains identical.
- You are being too careful; just make a decision.
- Her planning was too careful and left no room for spontaneity.
Variants and Related Words
- Overly careful (adj phrase): A more common synonym with the same meaning.
- Overcautious (adj): Excessively cautious, often implying an irrational fear of risk.
- Meticulous (adj): Taking or showing extreme care about minute details. (This can be positive or negative; "too-careful" explicitly frames it as negative).
- Fastidious (adj): Very attentive to accuracy and detail; scrupulous. (Similar to meticulous, can imply excess).
Synonyms
- Overcautious
- Overly cautious
- Unduly careful
- Hyper-vigilant (in specific contexts)
- Fussy (implies excessive care about trivial details)
Antonyms
- Careless
- Reckless
- Negligent
- Hasty
- Impulsive
Related Phrases
- To err on the side of caution: To be especially careful to avoid risk. (This is generally a positive or neutral phrase, whereas "too-careful" is a criticism).
- To be painstaking: Showing diligent care and great effort. (Can be positive; "too-careful" suggests the effort is misplaced).
Adjective
-
excessively or unduly careful
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