What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outrun
Example
He was able to outrun his opponent and win the race. [outrun: verb]
Example
The athlete managed to outrun the bear and reach safety. [outrun: verb]
Example
Our company needs to outrun our competitors to stay ahead in the market. [outrun: verb]
outpace
Example
The company's profits are outpacing their projections for the year. [outpacing: present participle]
Example
Her academic achievements have outpaced those of her peers. [outpaced: past tense]
Example
The new technology is outpacing the old one in terms of efficiency and performance. [outpacing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outpace is more commonly used than outrun in everyday language. Outpace is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while outrun is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outrun and outpace?
Both outrun and outpace are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
