What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outclass
Example
The new model of the car outclasses its predecessor in terms of fuel efficiency. [outclass: verb]
Example
Her singing outclassed all the other contestants in the competition. [outclassed: past tense]
surpass
Example
His academic achievements surpassed those of his siblings. [surpassed: past tense]
Example
The new technology surpasses the old one in terms of speed and efficiency. [surpass: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Surpass is more commonly used than outclass in everyday language. Surpass is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while outclass is less common and is often used in specific contexts such as sports or competitions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outclass and surpass?
Both outclass and surpass can be used in formal or informal contexts, but surpass is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, making it more suitable for formal writing or speech.
