What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exceeded
Example
The company's profits exceeded expectations this quarter. [exceeded: verb]
Example
The number of attendees at the event exceeded the maximum capacity of the venue. [exceeded: past tense]
surpass
Example
Her performance in the competition surpassed everyone's expectations. [surpassed: verb]
Example
The new product design surpasses the previous model in terms of functionality and aesthetics. [surpasses: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exceeded is more common than surpass in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exceeded and surpass?
Both exceeded and surpass can be used in formal and informal contexts.
