übermaß

Übermaß is a German word that translates to excess, surplus, or superabundance in English. It describes a state of having more than is needed, wanted, or appropriate. This can apply to a wide range of contexts, from material possessions to emotions or even abstract concepts.

In a physical sense, Übermaß can refer to having too much food, wealth, or resources. This can lead to issues like waste, gluttony, or societal inequality. The concept of sustainability often grapples with the negative consequences of Übermaß in terms of consumption and resource depletion.

Beyond the material, Übermaß can also describe an excess of something intangible. For instance, an Übermaß of emotion might indicate overwhelming joy, sorrow, or anger that is difficult to manage. In art or literature, Übermaß could describe an ornate or overly elaborate style that detracts from the overall effect. It can also denote a surplus of effort or enthusiasm that, while perhaps well-intentioned, becomes counterproductive.

The perception of what constitutes Übermaß is often subjective and culturally dependent. What one person or society considers excessive, another might see as normal or even desirable. The word inherently carries a connotation of something being beyond a reasonable or necessary limit, often implying a potential for negative outcomes or a lack of balance.