Overarch vs. Overarching

Attribute	Overarch	Overarching
Definition	to be above or superior to	encompassing or overarching in scope or effect
Usage	verb	adjective
Meaning	to dominate or overshadow	to include or encompass everything

Definition

Overarch and overarching are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Overarch typically refers to something that spans or extends over something else, often in a literal sense. For example, a bridge may overarch a river, providing a pathway across. On the other hand, overarching is more commonly used in a figurative sense, to describe something that is all-encompassing or comprehensive. It can refer to a concept, idea, or principle that applies to a wide range of situations.

Usage

When it comes to usage, overarch is typically used to describe physical structures or objects that span over something else. It is often used in architecture or engineering contexts to describe the design of buildings, bridges, or other structures. Overarching, on the other hand, is more commonly used in discussions of ideas, theories, or principles that have a broad application. It is often used in academic or philosophical discussions to describe concepts that have a wide-reaching impact.

Scope

The scope of overarch and overarching also differs. Overarch tends to have a more limited scope, as it is usually used to describe specific physical structures or objects that span over something else. It is often used in a concrete, tangible sense to describe the design or layout of a particular object. Overarching, on the other hand, has a broader scope, as it is used to describe concepts, ideas, or principles that have a wide-ranging application. It is often used in a more abstract, theoretical sense to describe overarching themes or principles.

Implications

The implications of overarch and overarching also differ. Overarch implies a sense of physicality and tangibility, as it is often used to describe structures or objects that physically span over something else. It suggests a sense of solidity and permanence, as in the case of a bridge that overarches a river. Overarching, on the other hand, implies a sense of universality and comprehensiveness, as it is often used to describe concepts or ideas that apply to a wide range of situations. It suggests a sense of inclusivity and breadth, as in the case of an overarching principle that governs many different scenarios.

Examples

To illustrate the differences between overarch and overarching, consider the following examples. An archway that spans over a doorway can be described as overarch, as it physically extends over the entrance. On the other hand, a guiding principle that applies to all aspects of a company's operations can be described as overarching, as it influences the organization as a whole. In these examples, overarch is used to describe a physical structure, while overarching is used to describe a conceptual principle.