Outbid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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outbid
[ˌaʊtˈbɪd ]
Definition
auction
To offer a higher price than someone else in order to buy something, especially at an auction.
Synonyms
outdo, outmatch, outstrip, surpass.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| outbid |
Used in competitive situations, especially in auctions or business, when someone offers a higher price or better terms than another person.
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| outdo |
Used when someone does something better or is more successful than another person in a particular activity or task.
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| outmatch |
Applied in situations where one person or thing is superior in skill, quality, or ability compared to another. It often implies a direct competition.
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| outstrip |
Used when someone or something moves faster, develops more quickly, or becomes better than another person or thing. It often involves surpassing expectations or standards.
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| surpass |
Used to indicate exceeding a particular limit, standard, or expectation. This can relate to achievements, qualities, or performance, without necessarily involving direct competition.
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Examples of usage
- She outbid all the other bidders for the painting.
- He was determined to outbid his rival for the antique vase.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Economics
- In competitive markets, outbidding helps determine the true value of items, especially rare collectibles.
- Auctions rely on the principle of outbidding to drive prices higher, benefiting both sellers and vendors.
Pop Culture
- High-stakes auctions in TV shows and movies often feature characters outbidding each other for dramatic effect.
- Shows like 'Auction Hunters' display the thrill of outbidding in real-time as participants chase valuable items.
Psychology
- People might be motivated to outbid others due to a perceived competition or the fear of missing out (FOMO).
- Winning a bid can trigger positive emotions such as elation or pride, influencing future bidding behavior.
Technology
- Online auction platforms, like eBay, use algorithms to facilitate outbidding, even allowing automated bids to increase by set increments.
- Auction software analyzes past bidding behavior to suggest optimal bidding strategies.
Origin of 'outbid'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'outbid' is a combination of 'out', meaning beyond, and 'bid', which comes from the Old English word 'byddan', meaning to offer.
- It has been used in English since the late 19th century, reflecting the rise of formal auctions.
The term 'outbid' originated in the 17th century, combining the prefix 'out-' meaning 'beyond' or 'more than', and 'bid' referring to an offer to pay a certain price for something. Over the years, 'outbid' has become commonly used in the context of auctions and competitive bidding.