OVERQUALIFIED Synonyms: 53 Similar and Opposite Words

overqualified

adjective

Definition of overqualified

as in skilled

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of overqualified Shohei Ohtani returned to the mound At this time in 2025, the Dodgers deployed the most overqualified opener of all time. — Stephen J. Nesbitt, New York Times, 16 June 2026 Others shared similar impressions of a cutthroat job market, in which a glut of overqualified candidates are competing for junior and mid-level software engineering jobs. — Joel Khalili, Wired News, 28 May 2026 Social media is rife with frustrated job seekers submitting hundreds of applications with no callbacks and overqualified candidates desperately throwing resumes at entry-level positions. — Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026 Meanwhile, overqualified singers like Ravyn Lenae, Mustafa, and Omar Apollo do some of the background vocal riffs that Harlow’s limited range won’t reach. — Alphonse Pierre, Pitchfork, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overqualified

Recent Examples of Synonyms for overqualified

Adjective

Trump’s notoriety for corruption may finally be eclipsing his populist appeal, and even rhetoricians as skilled as Jennings have difficulty making a case for him.

— Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026
Provincial officials are counting on the project to deliver billions of dollars in investment, highly skilled jobs and a market for surplus wind power.

— ABC News, ABC News, 2 Nov. 2026

Definition of skilled

Adjective

Miami, which isn’ t adept at game-winning situations, isn’t yet ready to win this type of game.

— Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026
As riot police have adapted their tactics and weapons, demonstrators have become adept at anticipating police maneuvers and exploiting gaps in security.

— Saskya Vandoorne, CNN Money, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of adept

Adjective

Students performing at Levels 3 and 4, according to the state board of education, are considered proficient in Illinois Learning Standards, which prepare them for college and careers.

— Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026
Organizations need periods when employees can become proficient with new systems, develop confidence in unfamiliar procedures and actually experience the benefits of changes already introduced.

— Jason Richmond, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of proficient

Adjective

The 37-year-old Hayes, who came out of retirement two years ago and spent 10 seasons with the Dream, scored 11 points in the winner-take-all Game 7 and brought energy all series that made Nakase want to win for the veteran guard as much as anybody.

— Janie McCauley, Chicago Tribune, 1 Nov. 2026
Nine Dodgers became free agents at the conclusion of the postseason — although veteran infielder Miguel Rojas announced his intention to retire.

— Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of veteran

Adjective

Here’s a guide to scarecrows past and present, including expert tips on how to construct an autumnal bogeyman of your own that is sure to stand out.

— Victoria Hoffmann, Christian Science Monitor, 31 Oct. 2026
If everyone starts doing that, what happens when the video game industry no longer has a pool of beloved, expert modders to hire?

— Ruben Circelli, PC Magazine, 29 Oct. 2026

Definition of expert

Browse Nearby Words

overprotective

overqualified

overran

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“Overqualified.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overqualified. Accessed 7 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of overqualified

adjective

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