Outclass Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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outclass

[aʊtˈklɑːs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in competition

To surpass someone or something in a competitive situation, especially in terms of skill, performance, or quality.

Synonyms

excel, outdo, outperform, outshine, surpass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
outclass

Usually used when comparing two entities where one is clearly superior to the other in terms of quality, performance, or characteristics.

  • The soccer team outclassed their opponents with their superior skills and strategy
outdo

Implies a sense of competition where one person or entity performs better than another. Can be used positively or neutrally.

  • He always tries to outdo his colleagues by working extra hours
outperform

Often used in formal or business contexts to compare performance metrics, showing that one is better than another.

  • Our company managed to outperform our main competitor this year in terms of sales
surpass

To exceed expectations or standards, often used in more formal or literary contexts.

  • His achievements have surpassed all our expectations
excel

Used to describe someone or something that performs at a very high level, often in a specific area or task.

  • She excels at mathematics, always scoring top marks in her exams
outshine

Used to describe someone or something that is more impressive or attractive than others, often in a more personal or subjective context.

  • At the party, her dress and confidence made her outshine everyone else

Examples of usage

  • He outclassed his opponent with his speed and agility.
  • The new smartphone outclasses all its competitors in terms of camera quality.
  • She outclassed the other singers with her powerful voice.
Context #2 | Verb

in appearance

To surpass someone in terms of elegance, style, or sophistication.

Synonyms

excel, outdo, outmatch, outshine, surpass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
outclass

Used when someone or something is far superior to the competition, typically in a noticeable way.

  • The soccer team outclassed their opponents in every aspect of the game.
  • Her performance outclassed all her peers, making her the clear winner.
outshine

Used when someone or something is noticeably better or more impressive than others, often implying a sense of brilliance or radiance.

  • Her talent on stage outshines everyone else in the troupe.
  • The new product outshines all its predecessors with innovative features.
outdo

Used when someone does something better than another person, typically in a competitive situation.

  • He always tries to outdo his older brother in sports.
  • The company managed to outdo its competitors by offering better customer service.
surpass

Used when someone exceeds expectations or standards, going beyond what was previously achieved.

  • She managed to surpass all her goals for the year.
  • His recent work has surpassed all his previous achievements.
excel

Used when someone performs exceptionally well, often in a specific area or skill.

  • She excels in mathematics, consistently scoring top marks.
  • The employee has excelled in customer service, earning multiple awards.
outmatch

Used when someone or something is clearly superior in a competitive scenario, often implying an unbalanced competition.

  • The champion was clearly outmatched by the new contender.
  • Their team outmatched us in every game this season.

Examples of usage

  • She outclassed everyone at the party with her stunning dress.
  • The luxurious restaurant outclasses all others in the city.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Outclassing can lead to a boost in self-esteem for the one who excels, reinforcing the importance of competence in social settings.
  • Research shows that being outclassed can create feelings of motivation in some individuals, driving them to improve.
  • A constant feeling of being outclassed by others may lead to stress or anxiety, highlighting the need for healthy competition.

Sports

  • In sports, outclassing opponents is often a key indicator of skill level and can influence rankings and opportunities.
  • Famous athletes are often described as having outclassed their competition during crucial games or matches.
  • The concept of 'outclassing' is used in discussions about talent versus hard work, illustrating how different factors contribute to success.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters who outclass their rivals, such as in competitions, showcases, or battles for leadership.
  • Outclassing is a common theme in reality TV shows, where participants strive to stand out among peers.
  • Iconic figures in music and film frequently outclass others, setting trends that influence culture.

Education

  • In academia, outclassing can refer to students who perform significantly better than their classmates in tests or projects.
  • Educational systems often reward those who outclass others, leading to scholarships or advanced placements.
  • Teachers may use the concept of outclassing to inspire competition in learning environments, motivating students to excel.

Origin of 'outclass'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'outclass' combines 'out-', meaning beyond, and 'class', referring to a group of similar things or people.
  • It originated in the early 20th century, reflecting an increasing emphasis on competition and standards of excellence.
  • The term is often used in contexts like sports or academics to express superiority.

The word 'outclass' originated from the combination of 'out' and 'class', indicating the act of surpassing in class or quality. It first appeared in the mid-19th century and has been used to describe superiority in various aspects ever since.


See also: class, classes, classic, classical, classicalist, classification, classifications, classified, classify, classily, classroom, classy, reclassify, subclassing, unclassified, underclassmen, upperclassmen.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,581, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.