to be exceptionally good at or proficient in an activity or subject, to surpass or outdo something or someone

excel oneself, excel at, excel to

Formal and Informal Expressions of excel

In different contexts, you can replace 'excel' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'outdo, surpass' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'kick butt, rock' is a commonplace synonym.

excel: Explore its Definition & Usage

excel Definition

1to be exceptionally good at or proficient in an activity or subject
2to surpass or outdo something or someone

Using excel: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "excel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She excels in mathematics and science.
Example
The company excels in customer service.
Example
He excelled in sports during high school.
Example
The athlete excelled in the long jump event.

excel Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for excel

Antonyms for excel

fail
struggle
underperform

Phrases with excel

excel oneself
to surpass one's own previous achievements
Example
He excelled himself by winning the championship for the third time.
excel at
to be exceptionally good at a particular activity or subject
Example
She excels at playing the piano.
excel to
to reach a high level of achievement or success
Example
He excelled to become the CEO of the company.

Origins of excel

from Latin 'excellere', meaning 'to rise, surpass'

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Summary: excel in Brief

To 'excel' [ɪkˈsel] means to be exceptionally good at something or to surpass something or someone. It is often used to describe proficiency in a particular subject or activity, as in 'She excels in mathematics and science.' 'Excel' can also be used in phrases like 'excel oneself,' which means to surpass one's own previous achievements.