Outran Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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outran
out-ran
Definition
running away
The term 'outran' is the past tense of 'outrun'. It refers to the action of running faster than someone or something else. This can be used in various contexts, such as in a race or while escaping from a dangerous situation. The ability to outrun someone could be metaphorical as well, meaning to outpace them in performance or achievement. It implies a sense of speed and superiority in movement.
Synonyms
outdistance, outpace, outstrip.
Examples of usage
- She outran all her competitors in the marathon.
- He was able to outrun the dog chasing him.
- They outran their past mistakes and made a fresh start.
Translations
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Quick facts about “outran”
Outran is a 2-syllable verb (out-ran). It is pronounced /aʊˈtɹæn/ in American English and /aʊtɹˈæn/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 3 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #34,303 among the most common English words.
Did you know?
“outran” in pop culture
- In various films, such as action and sports genres, characters often 'outran' their enemies, symbolizing triumph or success.
- The phrase 'outran the competition' is common in sports advertisements, signifying a competitive edge.
“outran” in literature
- Authors like Ernest Hemingway have used the concept of outrunning fears or past mistakes in their works to show personal growth.
- In many fables and stories, characters 'outran' challenges, symbolizing triumph over adversity.
“outran” in psychology
- Research suggests that physical activity, like running, helps individuals 'outrun' stress and anxiety, promoting mental well-being.
- The act of outrunning in a metaphorical sense can also indicate overcoming obstacles in life, enhancing resilience.
“outran” in science
- Studies in biology reveal that some animals are naturally built to outrun predators, showcasing the evolution of speed in survival.
- The mechanics of running involve complex muscle coordination that allows humans and animals to 'outrun' natural limitations.”
Origin of 'outran'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'outran' comes from Old English, combining 'out' (beyond) and 'ran', the past tense of 'run'.
- In Middle English, 'outrun' was used to describe surpassing someone in speed, emphasizing the action of running ahead.
The word 'outran' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'out-' and the verb 'run'. The prefix 'out-' typically conveys the meaning of surpassing or exceeding. 'Run' itself comes from the Old English 'rinnan' and has been a fundamental English word for moving swiftly on foot since the language's earliest forms. The past tense 'outran' follows standard English verb conjugation rules, showcasing how English has adopted and adapted words and their meanings over time. The concept of outrunning someone has transcended its physical meaning and entered idiomatic uses, signifying achieving greater success in many aspects, such as in business or personal challenges.