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Outweigh: meaning, definitions and examples

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outweigh

 

[ aʊtˈweɪ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

comparison of importance

To outweigh means to be greater in weight, value, or significance than something else. It often involves evaluating two or more factors to determine which has more influence or importance in a given context. This verb is frequently used in discussions of benefits versus drawbacks, where one element is argued to have more merit than another. Outweighing can apply to physical weight as well as abstract qualities like emotional importance or moral values.

Synonyms

exceed, overshadow, predominate, surpass

Examples of usage

  • The benefits of exercise outweigh the risks.
  • In this debate, evidence clearly outweighs opinion.
  • Her passion for the project outweighs the challenges ahead.

Translations

Translations of the word "outweigh" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superar

🇮🇳 भारी होना

🇩🇪 überwiegen

🇮🇩 melebihkan

🇺🇦 переважати

🇵🇱 przewyższać

🇯🇵 勝る

🇫🇷 l'emporter sur

🇪🇸 superar

🇹🇷 aşmak

🇰🇷 우세하다

🇸🇦 يتفوق على

🇨🇿 převážit

🇸🇰 prevážiť

🇨🇳 超过

🇸🇮 prevladati

🇮🇸 yfirgnæfa

🇰🇿 асып кету

🇬🇪 გაუმჯობესება

🇦🇿 üstün gəlmək

🇲🇽 superar

Etymology

The word 'outweigh' is derived from the prefix 'out-' meaning 'beyond' or 'exceeding', combined with the Old English word 'wegan', which means 'to weigh'. The earliest usage of this term dates back to the 15th century, where it was primarily used in the context of weighing physical objects. Over time, its use extended metaphorically to describe non-physical comparisons, such as the weighing of advantages against disadvantages. The evolution of 'outweigh' reflects the broader development of the English language, incorporating both Germanic roots and influences from Latin and French, necessitating a flexible understanding of weight and value that surpasses mere physicality.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,808, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.