Excesiva

Excesiva is the feminine singular form of the Spanish adjective excesivo, used to describe something that is greater than what is necessary, appropriate, or reasonable. It characterizes events, quantities, intensities, or behaviors that exceed desired or normal limits. The related noun is exceso, and the adverbial form is excesivamente. The term derives from Latin excessivus, passing into Spanish through historical linguistic development.

Grammatical use and agreement

Excesiva must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For masculine nouns the form is excesivo; for feminine singular nouns it is excesiva; for feminine plural nouns it is excesivas; for masculine plural nouns it is excesivos. Example: “una cantidad excesiva” (feminine singular) vs. “un costo excesivo” (masculine singular).

Nuances and connotations

Excesiva often carries a negative or evaluative nuance, suggesting imprudence, waste, or a lack of balance. In technical or descriptive contexts, however, it can function neutrally to indicate upper limits or thresholds, as in measurements or risk assessments. In everyday language, it is commonly used to express disapproval or concern.

Synonyms and distinctions

Common synonyms include desmesurada, desproporcionada, exagerada. Antonyms include moderada, razonable, adecuada. The choice among these terms depends on the degree of emphasis and the specific context.

Usage examples

- una cantidad excesiva de sal

- un gasto excesivo

- una reacción excesiva

- un consumo excesivo de alcohol

See also

Exceso, excesividad, excesivamente. Excesiva is widely used across Spanish-speaking regiones and registers, from informal to formal writing.