overlap
To cover part of the same area of space or time as something else, or to have some common qualities or features. It describes situations where two things occupy the same physical space partially or where two events happen simultaneously for a period.
Examples
3 of 5The roof tiles overlap each other to ensure that rain cannot leak through.
The shingles on the roof sit on top of one another to prevent water from entering.
It is observed that the legal frameworks of these two nations overlap in matters of maritime trade.
The laws of both countries share common rules regarding sea-based commerce.
My gym time and your yoga class overlap by ten minutes, so we can walk home together.
Our two scheduled activities happen at the same time for ten minutes.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'lap'. Like a cat sitting on your lap, one thing sits 'over' the 'lap' of another, sharing that space.
Quick Quiz
The history and literature courses __________ quite a bit, as both cover the Victorian era.
Correct!
The correct answer is: overlap
Examples
The roof tiles overlap each other to ensure that rain cannot leak through.
everydayThe shingles on the roof sit on top of one another to prevent water from entering.
It is observed that the legal frameworks of these two nations overlap in matters of maritime trade.
formalThe laws of both countries share common rules regarding sea-based commerce.
My gym time and your yoga class overlap by ten minutes, so we can walk home together.
informalOur two scheduled activities happen at the same time for ten minutes.
In the study of linguistics, the fields of morphology and syntax often overlap when analyzing word formation.
academicLinguistic research shows these two branches share common theoretical ground during analysis.
We need to redefine these roles because their responsibilities overlap, causing confusion in the department.
businessThe job duties are too similar, which is creating a lack of clarity in the office.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
no overlap between
two things that are completely distinct and separate
considerable overlap
a high degree of similarity or shared timing
areas of overlap
specific points where two topics or objects meet
Often Confused With
Overlap means to share space/time, while overlook means to fail to notice something or to have a view from above.
Overlap is when two things share a part of a surface; overlay is to put one thing entirely on top of another.
Usage Notes
Overlap can be used as both a noun and a verb. When used as a verb, it is often followed by the preposition 'with' when describing the relationship between two subjects.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'overlap to' when they should use 'overlap with'. Also, they sometimes confuse the noun and verb forms in sentence structure.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'lap'. Like a cat sitting on your lap, one thing sits 'over' the 'lap' of another, sharing that space.
Word Origin
Derived from the prefix 'over-' and the verb 'lap' (to fold), appearing in the late 17th century to describe items folded over one another.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western corporate culture, 'overlap' is often discussed during restructuring to eliminate 'redundancy' (doing the same work twice).
Quick Quiz
The history and literature courses __________ quite a bit, as both cover the Victorian era.
Correct!
The correct answer is: overlap
Related Grammar Rules
Related Words
antiphobure
C1A specialized substance, treatment, or psychological mechanism used to counteract or neutralize a specific phobia or chronic state of fear. It refers to both pharmacological agents and therapeutic interventions that specifically target the reduction of irrational dread.
contrastaency
C1This adjective describes a state or quality characterized by sharp, distinct differences or a high degree of contrast against a surrounding context. It is primarily used in technical, artistic, or analytical settings to highlight elements that are intentionally divergent or visually striking.
transrogous
C1A transrogous is a transitional entity or conceptual bridge that connects two distinct systems, categories, or states of being. It is primarily used in theoretical modeling to describe a point of intersection where properties of both surrounding domains are visible.
semiuniation
C1The process or state of being partially joined or incomplete unification where elements remain distinct despite being combined. It typically describes a compromise between total separation and a complete merger in organizational or technical contexts.
antehospdom
C1To provide preliminary care or hospitality within a domestic setting before a person is admitted to a formal institution or before a formal event occurs. This term describes the transitional phase of home-based management that precedes professional intervention.
superdentable
C1To create profound and permanent indentations in a surface by applying extreme force or pressure. This term is typically used in specialized material stress tests to describe the act of compromising a structural surface's integrity through excessive marking.
multivity
C1The state or quality of possessing multiple dimensions, functions, or activities simultaneously within a single system or entity. It describes a complex nature where various roles or layers coexist and interact rather than existing in isolation.
encitor
C1A person or agent that rouses, stimulates, or provokes others into action or a particular emotional state. It is typically used to describe an individual who instigates change or a catalyst that initiates a complex process.
multicarnness
C1Relating to the state of possessing or manifesting in multiple physical bodies or fleshy forms simultaneously. It is used to describe entities, particularly in speculative fiction or philosophy, that transcend a single biological vessel.
supermentdom
C1A state or condition of absolute intellectual supremacy or a realm governed by an elite group of superior minds. It refers to the conceptual domain where cognitive power and mental prowess dictate the structure of authority or society.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free