overdo, overdue

The words overdo, overdue sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. Why do overdo, overdue sound the same even though they are completely different words?

The answer is simple: overdo, overdue are homophones of the English language.

overdo
  1. :: verb-transitive

    To do, use, or stress to excess; carry (something) too far: overdid the diet and became malnourished.

  2. :: verb-transitive

    To exaggerate: overdid the compliments.

  3. :: verb-transitive

    To wear out the strength of; overtax.

  4. :: verb-transitive

    To cook (food) too long.

overdue
  1. :: adjective

    Being unpaid when due: an overdue bill.

  2. :: adjective

    Coming or arriving after the scheduled or expected time: an overdue train.

  3. :: adjective

    Expected or required but not yet having come about.

  4. :: adjective

    Being something that should have occurred earlier. See Synonyms at tardy.

Definitions from The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th Edition and Wordnik.

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About Homophones

Homophones (literally "same sound") are usually defined as words that share the same pronunciation, regardless of how they are spelled.

If they are spelled the same then they are also homographs (and homonyms); if they are spelled differently then they are also heterographs (literally "different writing").