overdetermined
/ˌoʊvərdɪˈtɜrmɪnd/
adjective
- Having more causes, reasons, or explanations than necessary to account for something; excessively determined or explained.
- The detective's theory was overdetermined, with too many motives pointing to the same suspect.
- The scientist argued that the result was overdetermined by multiple independent factors.
- In literary analysis, a character's actions can be overdetermined by both personal history and social pressures.
- In mathematics or logic, describing a system of equations or conditions that has more constraints than variables, often making it impossible to satisfy all at once.
- The student learned that an overdetermined problem can sometimes be solved by finding the best approximate answer.
- An overdetermined system of equations usually has no solution unless some conditions are redundant.
- The engineer realized the circuit design was overdetermined and needed fewer constraints.
- In psychology or social theory, describing a symptom, behavior, or event that is caused by multiple factors working together.
- The patient's anxiety was overdetermined by childhood trauma, work stress, and a recent loss.
- Social scientists often see crime as overdetermined by poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity.
- Her decision to move was overdetermined by a desire for change, a new job offer, and family needs.
Synonyms