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Outnumber Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ข
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outnumber

[aสŠtหˆnสŒmbษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

numerical comparison

To outnumber means to be greater in number than something else. This term is often used in contexts where one group is larger than another, giving them an advantage.

Synonyms

exceed, outweigh, surpass.

Examples of usage

  • The voters outnumbered the opposition significantly.
  • In this battle, the enemy forces outnumbered our troops.
  • Women outnumber men in many universities.
  • The fish outnumber the birds in the pond.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Statistics

  • In demographic studies, the 'outnumber' concept is crucial for understanding population trends, such as age gaps or gender ratios.
  • In political science, parties can 'outnumber' opponents to gain majority control in votes or discussions, impacting legislation.
  • In animal behavior, species that 'outnumber' predators often have better survival rates due to increased group vigilance.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often feature the theme of the underdog where a small group must outnumber a greater force, such as in the film 'The 300'.
  • In games like chess, players may use strategy to outnumber the opponentโ€™s pieces for a winning advantage.
  • Sports teams may also outnumber their rivals both in fans at events and in player statistics, creating narratives of dominance.

Biology

  • In ecosystems, species that outnumber others often determine the balance of the environment, akin to invasive species.
  • Social insects, such as ants and bees, are known for their ability to outnumber predators through coordinated group behavior.
  • In genetics, populations that outnumber others can lead to increased genetic diversity or dominance of certain traits.

Business

  • In market competition, brands that outnumber their rivals in advertising can significantly increase their visibility and sales.
  • Studies show that consumer preferences can lean toward products or ideas that 'outnumber' competing options in a marketplace.
  • Companies often analyze data on customer demographics to determine how they can outnumber competitors in specific markets.

Origin of 'outnumber'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'outnumber' combines 'out' meaning 'beyond' and 'number' which refers to a count.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 15th century, indicating a long history of expressing comparison in quantity.
  • Similar terms in other languages exist; for example, in Spanish, the word 'superar en nรบmero' translates to 'to exceed in number.'

The word 'outnumber' originated in the early 17th century, combining the prefix 'out-' meaning 'beyond' or 'exceeding' with the word 'number.' This reflects a concept common in English where the prefix 'out-' is used in verbs to indicate a greater degree or extent of something. Unlike its constituent parts, the use of 'outnumber' specifically embodies a comparative sense, which is particularly valuable in contexts of competition or quantification. The usage has remained consistent over the centuries, illustrating its stability in the language as a means to describe numerical superiority.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,855, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.