What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outlast
Example
The old building outlasted the newer ones around it. [outlast: verb]
Example
She managed to outlast her competitors in the endurance race. [outlast: verb]
Example
The party outlasted the night and ended at dawn. [outlasted: past tense]
survive
Example
The plant survived the harsh winter weather. [survived: past tense]
Example
He survived the accident with only minor injuries. [survived: past tense]
Example
The company managed to survive the economic recession. [survive: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Survive is more commonly used than outlast in everyday language. Survive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while outlast is less common and refers to endurance beyond expectations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outlast and survive?
Both outlast and survive are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
