overshoot the mark

Definition & Meaning of "[overshoot] the mark"

to overshoot the mark

to make a mistake, particularly in judging the amount of something

What is the origin of the idiom "overshoot the mark" and when to use it?

The idiom "overshoot the mark" originated from archery, where the "mark" refers to the target that the archer aims for. When an archer shoots an arrow and it goes beyond the mark, they have overshot the mark. It can be used to describe a range of scenarios where someone has overreached, overestimated, or over-committed themselves, resulting in a negative outcome or consequence.

to go further past the place where one intended to be

What is the origin of the idiom "overshoot the mark" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "overshoot the mark" lies in archery, where the "mark" refers to the target. When an archer pulls back the bowstring and releases the arrow, there is a risk of exerting too much force, causing the arrow to fly past the intended target. The expression is mostly used metaphorically to signify going beyond or surpassing the intended goal or stopping point.