Outplay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฎ
Add to dictionary

outplay

[aสŠtpleษช ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in gaming

To outperform or outwit an opponent in a competitive game or sport, especially by using superior skill or strategy.

Synonyms

outmaneuver, outperform, outwit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
outplay

Used mainly in sports or competitive games to describe someone who plays better than their opponent.

  • 'The team managed to outplay their rivals in the final match
  • ' 'Despite being new to the game, she was able to outplay experienced players
  • '
outperform

Commonly used in contexts such as business, work, or any measurable performance to indicate superior results or efficiency.

  • 'Their new product outperforms all others on the market
  • ' 'In the quarterly report, our team outperformed expectations
  • '
outwit

Used when someone uses their intelligence or clever tricks to defeat another person or solve a problem; it often carries a crafty or cunning connotation.

  • 'She was able to outwit the tricky interviewer with her quick responses
  • ' 'In the story, the hero outwits the villain with a clever plan
  • '
outmaneuver

Often used in strategic or tactical situations where someone uses a clever plan or moves to get the better of their opponent.

  • 'The general was able to outmaneuver the enemy and win the battle
  • ' 'In the business deal, she outmaneuvered her competitors with a smart strategy
  • '

Examples of usage

  • He managed to outplay his opponent with clever tactics.
  • The team's ability to outplay their rivals led them to victory.
  • She consistently outplays her opponents in chess.

Translations

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

Origin of 'outplay'

The term 'outplay' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'out' and 'play'. It was initially used in the context of sports and games to describe a player's ability to surpass their opponents through skill or strategy. Over time, 'outplay' has become commonly used in gaming communities to indicate a player's superior performance in competitive games.


See also: downplay, interplay, misplay, outplayed, overplay, play, playback, playboy, player, players, playful, playfully, playfulness, playground, playhouse, playing, playlist, playoff, plays, plaything, playtime, playwright, playwrights, teleplay.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,666, 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.