German word

allzu

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈalt͡suː/

Meaning

  • adverbtoo

Example

Das ist allzu teuer.

That is too expensive.

Illustration for allzu (too)

More examples

Er kam allzu spät.

He came too late.

Core concept

A measure pushed beyond the point that is suitable or comfortable.

Common phrases

  • allzu früh

    too early

  • allzu spät

    too late

Similar words

zu: To a degree beyond what is suitable or desired.
sehr: To a very high degree.
ziemlich: To a fairly high degree.

Definition in German

In einem Maß, das zu viel ist.

Word origin

Allzu developed from the Middle High German combination alle zu, formed from all and zu, and became a single adverb meaning excessively.

Usage tips

  • With nicht, allzu often softens a negative judgment, as in nicht allzu teuer, meaning not excessively expensive.

Other meanings

  • overlyadverb

Opposites

Word lists with this word