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Region: General | Usage example: Too much of a good thing can make even dessert boring.

Too much of a good thing

Meaning

Overindulgence can spoil the best pleasures.

Usage

Used when cautioning moderation.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Proverb warning against excess.

Appears in English proverbs by the 17th century.

Related Idioms

For good measure

As an extra addition.

All in good time

Things will happen when they are meant to.

Rain on your parade

Disappoint or spoil someone's good mood or celebration.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.