What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outguessing
Example
I tried outguessing my opponent's next move in the chess game. [outguessing: gerund or present participle]
Example
She was good at outguessing her friend's reactions to surprises. [outguessing: verb]
outwitting
Example
The detective was able to outwit the criminal and solve the case. [outwit: verb]
Example
She outwitted her opponent in the debate by presenting a strong argument. [outwitted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outwitting is more commonly used than outguessing in everyday language. Outwitting is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while outguessing is less common and refers to a specific type of mental activity.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between outguessing and outwitting?
Both outguessing and outwitting are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.