overrate
UK[ˌəʊvəˈreɪt]US[ˌoʊvərˈreɪt]
v
to have too high an opinion of something or someone; to value or assess too highly
Morpheme Breakdown
over
rate
over
excessively
rate
evaluate
Etymology
the word "overrate" is a transparent compound formed within english from the native prefix "over-" and the latinate verb "rate." the prefix "over-," with its old english and proto-germanic ancestry, carries the enduring sense of excess or surpassing a limit. the verb "rate," entering english from medieval latin via french, originally pertained to calculating a fixed value or proportion. the fusion of these elements in the 16th century created a logical and enduring term meaning to assign a value or esteem that exceeds the true or appropriate measure, perfectly encapsulating the concept of overvaluation.
Analysis
Structure: over (excessively) + rate (evaluate)
- over: from old english ofer, meaning "above, beyond, excessively." it functions as an intensifying prefix.
- rate: from latin rata (as in pro rata parte, "according to a fixed proportion"), via old french rate ("price, value"). it functions as the root verb meaning "to estimate, to value."
Examples
critics argue that many modern films are overrated and rely too heavily on special effects.
it's easy to overrate the importance of a single interview in the hiring process.
she felt her contribution had been overrated and was embarrassed by the excessive praise.