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Outwitted: meaning, definitions and examples

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outwitted

 

[ aʊtˈwɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

cognitive competition

Outwitted is the past tense of the verb 'outwit', which means to deceive or defeat someone by being more clever than they are. This term often implies a battle of wits, where one person uses intelligence or cunning to gain an advantage over another. It can be used in various contexts, including games, negotiations, or even in everyday situations where cleverness plays a crucial role. The term carries a connotation of skillful maneuvering and can often involve trickery or smart tactics.

Synonyms

bamboozle, fool, outsmart, trick.

Examples of usage

  • She outwitted her opponent in the chess match.
  • The cunning fox outwitted the hunters.
  • He outwitted them by cleverly planning his escape.
  • They always try to outwit each other during the debates.

Translations

Translations of the word "outwitted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 enganou

🇮🇳 धोखा दिया

🇩🇪 überlistet

🇮🇩 menipu

🇺🇦 перехитрив

🇵🇱 przechytrzył

🇯🇵 出し抜いた

🇫🇷 déjoué

🇪🇸 engañado

🇹🇷 aldatıldı

🇰🇷 속였다

🇸🇦 خدع

🇨🇿 přelstil

🇸🇰 prekonal

🇨🇳 智胜

🇸🇮 prevaral

🇮🇸 snyrt

🇰🇿 алдады

🇬🇪 მატყუა

🇦🇿 aldatdı

🇲🇽 engañó

Etymology

The word 'outwit' has its roots in the Old English word 'wit', which means 'to know' or 'knowledge'. This origin lays a foundational understanding of the term as it pertains to intelligence or mental sharpness. The prefix 'out-' suggests surpassing or overcoming, thus 'outwit' literally translates to surpassing in wit or intelligence. The transition of the word into more modern usage has been observed since the 15th century, indicating a longstanding recognition of the value of cunning and cleverness in human interactions. Over centuries, 'outwit' has evolved into a versatile term often employed in literature and conversation, depicting scenarios where intellect is pitted against intellect. Its application spans various contexts, highlighting the human tendency to engage in mental games, strategy, and negotiation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,750, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.