To and too (meaning in excess)


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'Too' is used in expressions like 'too chubby' and 'too expensive'. (It gives the idea of 'in excess' or 'more than it should be'.)

'Too' Meaning In Excess or More Than It Should Be

Occasionally, there is some confusion over the words 'too' and 'to'. The word 'too' has two uses. 'Too' can be used to express the idea of 'in excess' or 'more than it should be'. (The use of 'too' meaning 'as well' is explained here.)

Examples:

My Labrador eats too much and is too chubby.

(eats more than it should and is chubbier than it should be)

Karen cannot reach Southampton in an hour; it is too far.

(in excess of what she can achieve in a hour)

I need to talk to you. Do not leave it too late.

("to talk" - infinitive verb / "to you" - preposition / "too late" - expresses the idea of lateness in excess)

I tried to catch you, but I was too slow.

See also:

To (infinitive verb) and too
To and too (meaning as well)
To (preposition) and too

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