What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overpoise
Example
The elephant's weight overpoised the branch, causing it to break. [overpoised: past tense]
Example
The company's profits were overpoised by its debts, leading to financial trouble. [overpoised: past participle]
overcome
Example
She was able to overcome her fear of public speaking with practice. [overcome: verb]
Example
The team overcame a 20-point deficit to win the game. [overcame: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overcome is more commonly used than overpoise in everyday language. Overcome is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while overpoise is less common and refers to a specific situation of imbalance or instability.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overpoise and overcome?
Both overpoise and overcome can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, overcome is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, making it more appropriate for formal settings.