What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outperform
Example
The new product line is expected to outperform the previous one. [outperform: verb]
Example
She always manages to outperform her colleagues in sales. [outperform: verb]
outshine
Example
Her singing voice outshines all the other performers. [outshines: verb]
Example
The fireworks display outshone all the others in the city. [outshone: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outperform is more commonly used than outshine in everyday language, especially in business or academic contexts. Outshine is less common and is usually used in more creative or artistic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outperform and outshine?
Outperform is more formal than outshine, which is often used in more informal or conversational contexts.