Exceed: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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