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Outmatch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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outmatch

[aสŠtหˆmatสƒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in sports

To defeat or surpass an opponent in a competition or contest.

Synonyms

exceed, outdo, outperform, outstrip, surpass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
outmatch

Use when describing someone or something being clearly superior in a specific area, often in a competitive context.

  • The young chess player outmatched all her opponents at the tournament.
  • Her skills outmatch those of anyone else in the team.
outdo

Used when discussing outperforming someone or something, often implying an effort to be better.

  • She always tries to outdo her previous work.
  • They both strive to outdo each other in every competition.
outperform

Best used in business or competitive contexts, where statistical performance can be compared.

  • The new model outperforms all its competitors.
  • In recent years, the company has consistently outperformed the market.
surpass

Commonly used to indicate that something or someone has excelled beyond a certain standard or expectation.

  • Her latest novel surpasses all her previous works.
  • To surpass his achievements, you'll need to work really hard.
exceed

Appropriate for situations where something goes beyond a certain limit, often used with numbers or expectations.

  • The final cost of the project exceeded the initial budget.
  • His performance exceeded all expectations.
outstrip

Suitable for situations where something is dramatically ahead in progress or development, especially over time.

  • Demand for the product has outstripped supply.
  • He quickly outstripped all his classmates academically.

Examples of usage

  • Roger Federer outmatched his opponent in straight sets.
  • The team's defense was able to outmatch the opponent's offense.
  • The younger player was able to outmatch the experienced veteran.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Athletes often train not only to compete but also to outmatch their opponents, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
  • In sports commentary, 'outmatch' is often used to describe a game where one team clearly dominates another, highlighting the disparity in skill levels.

Psychology

  • Studies show that social comparisons, such as feeling outmatched, can impact motivation and self-esteem.
  • Feeling outmatched can sometimes lead to performance anxiety, influencing a person's ability to compete effectively.

Literature

  • Writers use the concept of outmatching to create tension in stories, portraying a hero facing an overwhelming challenge.
  • Classic literature often features protagonists overcoming outmatched circumstances as a theme of resilience and triumph.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, villains are often depicted as outmatching heroes, creating suspense until the hero's eventual victory.
  • Video games frequently feature mechanics where players can outmatch others through skill upgrades or strategic play.

Origin of 'outmatch'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'out-', a prefix meaning 'to surpass or exceed', with 'match', which refers to a contest or equal.
  • Its usage dates back to the 15th century in English, originally referring to surpassing someone in skill or ability.

The word 'outmatch' originated in the late 16th century, combining the prefix 'out-' meaning 'beyond' or 'exceedingly' with 'match', referring to a contest or competition. The term has been used primarily in sports and competitive contexts to describe surpassing or defeating an opponent.

See also: match, matched, matching, matchless, matchstick, mismatched, outmatchable, outmatched, unmatched.