What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outfox
Example
The detective was able to outfox the criminal and solve the case. [outfox: verb]
Example
She managed to outfox her competitors and win the game. [outfox: verb]
outsmart
Example
He was able to outsmart his opponent by anticipating their moves. [outsmart: verb]
Example
She used her knowledge of the subject to outsmart her classmates on the exam. [outsmart: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outsmart is more commonly used than outfox in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and has a more positive connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outfox and outsmart?
Both outfox and outsmart are informal words, but outsmart may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
