Overcome: meaning, definitions and examples

Utilized for describing the action of successfully dealing with a difficult situation or emotion, often implying a process or effort.

• She managed to overcome her fear of public speaking.
• He finally overcame the obstacles in his path to success.

Implies defeating or taking control over something, often in a powerful or challenging way. Can be used for both physical and abstract conquests.

• They set out to conquer new markets in Asia.
• She conquered her habit of procrastination.

Similar to 'overcome,' but often used in more formal contexts to describe overcoming obstacles or challenges, particularly significant ones.

• They had to surmount numerous challenges to complete the project.
• She surmounted the language barrier and excelled in her studies.

Used for achieving a high level of skill or proficiency in something, often implying dedication and practice. It suggests becoming highly competent.

• He has mastered the art of cooking Italian cuisine.
• She worked hard to master the complex software.

Often used in competitive contexts where one person or team emerges victorious over another. Can also mean to outdo or surpass something or someone.

• Our team beat the rivals in the final match.
• She always tries to beat her previous records.

Use in situations where someone successfully deals with or gains control over a challenge, obstacle, or emotion. It often conveys a sense of personal achievement or emotional strength.

• She had to overcome her fear of public speaking before giving the presentation.
• He overcame many difficulties to become the successful person he is today.

Use in contexts involving a clear and formal victory over an opponent, often in a more serious or competitive setting such as sports, battles, or debates. It can carry a more significant or official tone than 'beat'.

• The army was able to defeat the enemy forces and reclaim the territory.
• Our school team was defeated in the semifinal match.

Use to emphasize an especially glorious or significant victory, often after a long and difficult struggle. It has a celebratory and grand connotation.

• She triumphed over adversity to achieve her dreams.
• The nation triumphed over its oppressors with great perseverance.

Use when referring to winning against an opponent in a game, competition, or fight. It can be informal and often implies a straightforward victory.

• Our team beat the defending champions in the final match.
• He beat his friend at chess after a long game.

Use in literary or historical contexts to describe the act of completely dominating or crushing an opponent. The term is often dramatic and can carry a negative or severe connotation.

• In the legend, the hero vanquished the evil dragon to save the kingdom.
• The general vowed to vanquish all enemies of the state.