What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outstart
Example
The sprinter outstarted his competitors and took the lead from the beginning. [outstart: verb]
Example
Our team outstarted the others by getting a head start on the project. [outstarted: past tense]
Example
She outstarted the fundraising campaign by being the first to donate. [outstarting: gerund or present participle]
outpace
Example
The athlete outpaced his rivals and won the race easily. [outpace: verb]
Example
Our company is struggling to keep up with the competition, which is outpacing us in terms of growth. [outpacing: present participle]
Example
She outpaced her peers in academic achievement and was awarded a scholarship. [outpaced: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outpace is more commonly used than outstart in everyday language. Outpace is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while outstart is less common and may be considered outdated or formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outstart and outpace?
Outstart is typically associated with a formal tone and may be considered outdated in modern language usage. Outpace, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.