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Exceed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exceed

[ɪkˈsiːd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

intransitive

To go beyond the limits of what is usual or allowed.

Synonyms

outstrip, surpass, transcend.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exceed

Used when talking about going beyond a limit or standard, often in a measurable way.

  • The speed of the car exceeded the legal limit.
  • Her performance exceeded everyone's expectations.
surpass

Used when referring to achieving a better result than someone or something, often suggesting excellence or superiority.

  • His latest novel surpasses all his previous work.
  • Her cooking skills surpass those of a professional chef.
outstrip

Appropriate when speaking about moving ahead of someone or something in terms of performance, development, or achievements.

  • The company's sales have outstripped those of its competitors.
  • She outstripped her classmates in academic performance.
transcend

Appropriate for situations that involve going beyond ordinary limits, especially to a higher or more significant state.

  • Her music transcends cultural boundaries.
  • The painting transcends mere representation, offering deep emotional insight.

Examples of usage

  • Her expenses exceeded her income.
  • The noise level exceeded the legal limit.
Context #2 | Verb

transitive

To be greater or more than a specified or implied amount, degree, or number.

Synonyms

outdo, surpass, top.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exceed

This word is best used when referring to going beyond a certain limit or standard, especially in terms of measurements, expectations, or boundaries.

  • The temperature is expected to exceed 30 degrees today
  • His performance exceeded all our expectations
surpass

Use this term to describe going beyond what is expected or usual, often in a general or non-specific way. It can refer to abstract achievements, abilities, or qualities.

  • His achievements surpassed all the others
  • The beauty of the landscape surpassed our expectations
outdo

This word is often used in a competitive context, where someone or something surpasses another in a particular activity or quality.

  • She managed to outdo her rival in the competition
  • They always try to outdo each other with pranks
top

This informal term is often used to indicate being better or more successful than something or someone else.

  • She topped her class in the final exams
  • He managed to top his previous record

Examples of usage

  • The number of applicants exceeded our expectations.
  • The company's profits exceeded $1 million.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, to 'exceed' is often used in relation to limits, where a value surpasses a specific threshold.
  • An example in geometry is when a shape's area exceeds a certain measurement, affecting calculations of space.
  • Statistics frequently uses the term to describe data points that are larger than the mean or a defined set.

Business

  • In a business context, exceeding sales targets indicates better performance and often leads to incentives or bonuses.
  • Companies strive to exceed customer expectations to improve service and gain loyalty.
  • The phrase 'exceeding expectations' is a common goal in both product development and customer service sectors.

Education

  • In the classroom, students are encouraged to exceed their own limits to foster personal growth and learning.
  • Exceeding academic benchmarks can lead to scholarships and recognition in academic institutions.
  • Educational programs often set goals that challenge students to exceed their previous achievements.

Psychology

  • The concept of self-actualization in psychology involves individuals exceeding their limitations and reaching their full potential.
  • Positive reinforcement can encourage someone to exceed expectations in their personal or professional life.
  • Setting high standards can lead to a 'flow' state, where individuals exceed their usual performance and creativity.

Origin of 'exceed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'excedere', which means 'to go out' or 'to go beyond'.
  • It entered the English language in the 15th century, evolving from its Latin roots into its current form.
  • The prefix 'ex-' often indicates 'out of' or 'beyond', which helps understand the meaning of the word.

The word 'exceed' originated from the Latin word 'excedere', which means 'to go beyond'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of exceeding limits or boundaries has been a common theme throughout history, reflecting humanity's constant drive for progress and innovation.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,042, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.