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Overtaken Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overtaken

[oสŠvษ™หˆteษชkษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

driving situation

Overtaken refers to the action of passing someone or something that is moving slower than oneself. This term is often used in the context of driving where one vehicle moves ahead of another. It can also apply in competition scenarios, such as in sports where one competitor moves past another. Overtaking requires caution and awareness of road conditions and the behavior of the other driver.

Synonyms

outpaced, passed, surpassed.

Examples of usage

  • He overtook the car in front of him on the highway.
  • She was overtaken by her rival during the race.
  • The cyclist overtook the slower riders effortlessly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • In driving, overtaking refers to safely passing another vehicle on the road, a critical concept in traffic rules worldwide.
  • Studies show that the ability to overtake efficiently can make a significant difference in traffic flow and reduce travel time.
  • In cycling races, overtaking is a strategic move that can influence the outcome, with riders timing their moves based on speed and stamina.

Sports

  • In athletics, especially racing, overtaking opponents can be a crucial turning point, reflecting strategy and physical prowess.
  • In team sports like basketball, overtaking can refer to outscoring another team quickly, exemplifying tactical maneuvers.
  • The concept of overtaking can also apply in chess, where one player can 'overtake' positional advantage through strategic moves.

Psychology

  • The feeling of being overtaken can lead to competitive emotions, driving individuals to enhance their performance.
  • In social contexts, being overtaken can result in feelings of insecurity or motivation, depending on one's mindset.
  • Recognizing when one is overtaken can be an opportunity for self-reflection and growth in personal or professional settings.

Literature

  • In narratives, characters often face challenges of being overtaken by rivals, which can symbolize internal conflicts and ambitions.
  • Some stories use overtaking to illustrate themes of competition, progress, and the relentless march of time.
  • Famous literature often employs overtaking as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles, with characters surpassing their limitations.

Origin of 'overtaken'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'ofer', meaning over, and 'tacan', meaning to take.
  • The earliest uses of the word appeared around the 14th century, reflecting a literal and figurative sense of surpassing something.
  • Over time, its usage expanded to include not just physical overtaking, but also surpassing in achievements or understanding.

The word 'overtake' originates from the combination of the prefix 'over-' meaning 'above' or 'exceeding' and 'take', which comes from the Old English 'tacan' meaning 'to grasp'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, the term evolved in usage, especially in relation to transportation and racing contexts. In modern usage, it is commonly associated with vehicles but can also be applied to any situation where one entity comes to dominate or surpass another. The usage in literature and speaking reflects a broader context of competition and progress.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,819, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.