overdo/overdue

When you do something over, you don’t “overdo” it; you “redo” it. When something needs to be returned, it’s “due.” When it’s late, it’s “overdue.” When perhaps the barometric pressure has a weird effect, maybe there’s such a thing as “overdew.” Okay, I might have made up that last one.

Admittedly, this is one that sometimes makes me stop and think. But remember, “overdo” always involves the verb “do” as in “doing” something. “Overdue” always goes back to that “due date.”

Am I overdoing it with these grammar tips? I hope not. Do I have any library books that are overdue? Possible. Did my feet get wet because of some “overdew” when I walked through the grass this morning? I’m going to call artistic license on that one.

Happy writing, everyone.