ruin by adding what is superfluous; overdo
Meanings
1 sense · 5 examplesidiom
to ruin something by adding superfluous details; to overdo
formalThis idiom originates from the 'Stratagems of the Warring States'. It is used to criticize unnecessary or counterproductive actions, often in a narrative or instructive context. It functions grammatically as a predicate, object, or modifier in a sentence.
The data in this report is thorough; adding a pile of charts would really be overdoing it.
A speech should be concise and powerful; telling too many stories would just be superfluous.
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Your design is already perfect; adding any decoration would be a superfluous addition.
He helps with good intentions, but sometimes being overly enthusiastic backfires and creates more problems.
The original ending was fine; forcing a plot twist in the adaptation is just adding feet to a snake.