Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for overplay. Search instead for Overplays.
Definitions

overplay

[oh-ver-pley] / ˌoʊ vərˈpleɪ /
VERB
be dramatic
Synonyms
STRONGEST
exaggerate maximize overdo overemphasize overstate overuse
STRONG
accent accentuate dramatize hyperbolize magnify mug overact overdraw overstress overwork stretch
WEAK
blow out of proportion get carried away ham it up labor at lay it on thick point up show off
Antonyms
WEAK
play down

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

We shouldn't overplay the significance of one council by-election.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2025

But it’s easy to overestimate and overstate the extent of their leverage, and it’s a hand they can overplay.

From Slate • Feb. 13, 2025

In their loss to Oregon, some of their worst moments came when they played too aggressive, an overplay here, a bad pursuit route there.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 27, 2023

Asked what his advice to Johnson would be, he added, "don't overplay your hand."

From Reuters • Oct. 26, 2023

"Certainly I can overplay it," the star declared.

From Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories by Beach, Rex Ellingwood