English Expression · Intermediate
excess baggage
A dubious or unhelpful mental outlook, emotional disposition, or personal history
Pronunciation: say excess baggage
Meaning
Something, such as an emotional burden or unnecessary possession, that hinders progress or is difficult to manage.
Example
He needs to let go of the excess baggage from his past if he wants to move forward.
He needs to let go of the excess baggage from his past if he wants to move forward.
Practice tips
- Practice excess baggage out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.