What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outstrip
Example
The athlete outstripped his competitors and won the race. [outstripped: past tense]
Example
The company's profits have outstripped their expectations this quarter. [outstrip: verb]
surpass
Example
Her talent for singing surpasses that of her peers. [surpasses: present tense]
Example
The new technology surpasses the old one in terms of speed and efficiency. [surpasses: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Surpass is more commonly used than outstrip in everyday language. Surpass has a positive connotation and can be used in various contexts, while outstrip is less common and has a more neutral connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outstrip and surpass?
Both outstrip and surpass are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional settings.
