Outrace Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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outrace

[aʊtˈreɪs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a race

To outdo in a race or competition; to surpass in performance or speed.

Synonyms

outdistance, outpace, outstrip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
outrace	Similar to the first instance of 'outrace,' often used in the context of a direct race where speed is the key factor. In a thrilling finale, he outrace his rivals to win the gold medal
outstrip	Best used when talking about surpassing or exceeding something. Often used to describe achievements or numbers, such as sales, performance, or expectations. The company's sales have outstripped all previous records this quarter
outpace	Useful when referring to progress or development that exceeds or goes faster than another. Commonly used in business, tech, or personal development. The new tech startup managed to outpace its competitors by introducing innovative features faster
outdistance	Appropriate for describing situations where someone or something has left others far behind in terms of distance. Often used in sports or competitive contexts. The marathon runner managed to outdistance his closest rival by nearly a mile

Examples of usage

She managed to outrun all her competitors and win the race.
Despite his injury, he was able to outrun his opponents and reach the finish line first.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sports

In track and field, athletes train to improve their speed to outrace competitors in various events.
The concept of outracing in sports has been celebrated in numerous movies and books, inspiring many to chase their personal bests.
Famous races, like the Marathon, highlight the human spirit and the desire to outrace limits.

Nature

Some animals, like the cheetah, have unique adaptations, such as powerful leg muscles, that allow them to outrun their prey.
In the wild, survival often depends on the ability to outrace predators or rivals for food and territory.
Certain bird species, like the ostrich, can also outrun many land animals despite being flightless.

Culture

In popular culture, races are often metaphors for competition in various aspects of life, including business and personal achievements.
Many video games incorporate racing elements, allowing players to experience the thrill of outracing opponents in a virtual world.
Literature frequently uses the idea of outracing challenges as a symbol for overcoming obstacles in life.

Science

Physics teaches that speed is relative; something can appear to outrace another depending on the observer's point of view.
Studies have shown that practice and training can significantly increase an individual's speed, allowing one to outrace prior abilities.
Biomechanics examines how the body moves and generates power, crucial for understanding how to outrace others.

Origin of 'outrace'

Main points about word origin

The prefix 'out-' means 'better than' or 'beyond', while 'race' refers to a competition of speed.
The word 'outrace' combines 'out' and 'race', emphasizing surpassing others in speed.
Similar words like 'outperform' and 'outplay' also use the 'out-' prefix to indicate superiority.

The word 'outrace' originated from the combination of 'out' meaning surpass or exceed, and 'race' referring to a competition involving speed. The term first appeared in the English language in the early 18th century, primarily used in the context of racing and competition. Over time, 'outrace' has become a commonly used verb to describe the act of surpassing others in a race or competition.