Overrule: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when a higher authority (like a judge or supervisor) decides that a previous decision made by a lower authority is incorrect.

• The judge decided to overrule the objection raised by the lawyer.
• The principal had to overrule the teacher's decision regarding the student's suspension.

Typically used when disregarding or setting aside a decision or rule, often by using one's authority. It can also refer to bypassing a system or program.

• The manager decided to override the company's policy for this special case.
• You can override the automatic settings if you need manual control.

Commonly used to describe changing something to the opposite direction or returning to a previous state, including decisions, orders, or trends.

• The court's decision was reversed on appeal, and the defendant was set free.
• He tried to reverse the negative trends in the company's performance.

Often used in a legal or formal context to describe making something void and without legal force, such as a marriage or a contract.

• Their marriage was annulled after it was discovered that he was already married.
• The court can annul a contract if it was signed under duress.