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For example, let's say someone describes a simple physical theory and uses mathematics heavily in their description, in such a way that it makes the whole description quite confusing.

I want to say something like, "s/he has beaten the shit out of mathematics in her/his description" to indicate they have used mathematics unnecessarily much.

What would be possible phrases that can be used in such a situation.

I'm looking more for slang than formal language.

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  • As you imply, the description is heavy on the maths.
    – Edwin Ashworth
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 14:45
  • @RegDwigнt I'll be writing to a close friend; so using such a language not a problem
    – Our
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 14:52
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    @marcellothearcane see my edit please
    – Our
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 15:25
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    Synonyms for superfluous include, for example, redundant, unnecessary, unrequired, inessential, gratuitous, needless, pleonastic, tautological, dispensable,... Take your pick.
    – FumbleFingers
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 15:29
  • @FumbleFingers I am not looking for a word, I am looking for a phrase, like a saying.
    – Our
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 15:30

4 Answers 4

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Taking a sledgehammer to crack a nut

would seem appropriate.

See Collins for explanation.

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How about over the top? From Lexico:

over the top: To an excessive or exaggerated degree.

Your example:

S/he was over the top in her use of mathematics to describe X.

For extra emphasis, you could say s/he was way over the top.

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  • I think I'm looking for much of a slang language
    – Our
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 16:42
  • @onurcanbektas, You've never mentioned slang in your question.
    – Rayan Khan
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 16:43
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    @onurcanbektas How about over the frigging top? You’re free to choose a more objectionable adjective.
    – Richard Kayser
    Commented Jul 24, 2020 at 22:40
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'Theory X is flooded with math jargon' might be the sort of informal phrase you're looking for.

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You could say that that person has belabored the mathematics in the description.

belabor vt

  1. to explain, worry about, or work at unduly: belaboring an obvious point
    TFD Online
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