Outthink: meaning, definitions and examples

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outthink

 

[ aʊtˈθɪŋk ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

creative problem-solving

To outthink means to surpass someone in thinking creatively or strategically, especially in problem-solving.

Synonyms

outmaneuver, outsmart, outwit.

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Word Description / Examples
outthink

See the detail under 'outthink'. This word was listed twice in error.

outsmart

Often used informally when someone uses their intelligence or cunning to gain an advantage over someone else, sometimes with a slight connotation of trickery or deceit.

  • He outsmarted his rival by coming up with a brilliant marketing strategy
outwit

Commonly used when someone uses cleverness or guile to achieve their goals, frequently implying a playful or trickster-like context.

  • The fox outwitted the farmer by sneaking into the coop without being caught
outmaneuver

Appropriate in situations that involve physical or tactical movements, such as military operations or competitive sports.

  • The general was able to outmaneuver the enemy forces and secure a critical advantage

Examples of usage

  • She always manages to outthink her opponents in chess.
  • His ability to outthink the competition gives him a winning edge.
Context #2 | Verb

anticipating actions

To outthink also means to anticipate someone's actions or intentions and plan accordingly.

Examples of usage

  • He was able to outthink the burglars and secure his home.
  • She outthinks her opponents by predicting their next move.

Translations

Translations of the word "outthink" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superar em inteligência

🇮🇳 अधिक सोचें

🇩🇪 überlisten

🇮🇩 berpikir lebih cepat

🇺🇦 перехитрити

🇵🇱 przechytrzyć

🇯🇵 出し抜く

🇫🇷 déjouer

🇪🇸 superar en astucia

🇹🇷 daha zeki olmak

🇰🇷 능가하다

🇸🇦 يتفوق في الذكاء

🇨🇿 přechytračit

🇸🇰 prekabátiť

🇨🇳 智胜

🇸🇮 prelisičiti

🇮🇸 yfirvinna í hugviti

🇰🇿 алдап кету

🇬🇪 გადალახვა

🇦🇿 üstünlük etmək

🇲🇽 superar en astucia

Etymology

The word 'outthink' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'out' with 'think'. It reflects the human desire to excel in mental capabilities and strategic planning. The concept of outthinking others has been prevalent in various competitive fields, from sports to business, emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking and foresight.

See also: overthink, overthinking, rethink, rethinking, think, thinker, thinkers, thinking, thought, unthinkability, unthinkable, unthinkableness, unthinkably, unthinking, unthinkingly.