What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outstripped
Example
The company's profits outstripped their competitors this quarter. [outstripped: past tense]
Example
The athlete outstripped his opponents and won the race. [outstripped: past participle]
exceed
Example
The cost of the project exceeded our budget. [exceeded: past tense]
Example
The quality of the product exceeded my expectations. [exceeded: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exceed is more commonly used than outstrip in academic or professional contexts, while outstrip is less common but can be used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outstripped and exceed?
Exceed is more formal than outstrip and is often used in academic or professional contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.
