Words / B2

ohv-uh-RYD/ˌəʊvəˈraɪd/

To override is to use authority to cancel a decision or automatic setting: override a veto; override the lock. Overrule is a close legal/meeting twin (already elsewhere); overwrite is to replace a file. Staff cannot override the fire lock. Noun: an override. Mix-up: overrule / overwrite / overlook. Do not write override for “have a different opinion” without power to cancel.

Meaning

To use authority to cancel a decision or an automatic setting.

Examples

• “Staff cannot override the fire lock, the drill note said.”
• “Governors overrode the committee vote, which is the authority sense.”

Good to know

override + decision / setting; an override. Close: overrule. Trap: overwrite / overlook. Law, IT, and meetings. Cancel by higher authority, not merely disagree.

Near in meaning

overrule

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