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 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 Learning from Jeff Bezos Blackburn, 57, is a little overqualified to be running the Tennis Channel, which generated sales last year of just $265 million. — Lucas Shaw, Bloomberg, 9 Mar. 2026 Here are her best tips for ‘overqualified’ candidates on how to navigate the job process. — Sophie Caldwell, CNBC, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for overqualified

Recent Examples of Synonyms for overqualified

Adjective

There just aren’t enough skilled American engineers to meet demand.

— Michael Ashley, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
But Jovic still has upside as a skilled 6-foot-10 forward who’s just 23 years old and impressed with the Serbian national team during the July window of European World Cup qualifying this summer.

— Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

Definition of skilled

Adjective

The team also found that residents in the Sardinian Blue Zone had higher levels of curiosity and receptiveness to new ideas in general, and were more adept at understanding and sharing their emotions.

— Refractor, Refractor, 27 July 2026
But heading into his final year, Madsen has been working on becoming more adept at getting the ball down the field.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 26 July 2026

Definition of adept

Adjective

In a way, MacLeod is cheering for his own obsolescence; AI output is as proficient as most royalty-free music.

— Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 30 July 2026
The same with Skywalker — her spontaneity and her energy and life on camera and her ability to play while still being technically proficient and talented and is a real wonder.

— Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 25 July 2026

Definition of proficient

Adjective

Aside from sixth-year Ben Ford, who’s returning from an ACL tear, the most experienced player in the group is speedy junior Cam Bates.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 26 July 2026
Clubs with championship aspirations can never have too many healthy arms, and Stoudt's season-ending setback removes another experienced option from the organizational picture as Philadelphia prepares for the final months of the season.

— Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

Definition of experienced

Adjective

Our servicemembers deserve competent command, clear objectives, and an exit strategy.

— Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 July 2026
Furthermore, being competent in economics promotes better decision-making, financial awareness, training plans and business success, thereby benefiting both individuals and society.

— Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Definition of competent

Adjective

Grier also brought in veteran reinforcements at the start of the offseason, trading for defenseman Darnell Nurse and signing defenseman Jacob Trouba and forward Mason Marchment.

— ABC News, ABC News, 29 July 2026
The Carolina Panthers are hosting and working out a veteran quarterback this week.

— Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 29 July 2026

Definition of veteran

Adjective

Options include the Goat Trail traverse or Solo Creek to Chisana—both are around 25 miles and require expert backcountry skills.

— Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 23 July 2026
Our expert panel consisted of roughly three dozen coaches, general managers, personnel directors, scouts and front office staffers across the country, representing every conference.

— Antonio Morales, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Definition of expert

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overprotective

overqualified

overran

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“Overqualified.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overqualified. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of overqualified

adjective

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