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outweigh

verb

out·​weigh ˌau̇t-ˈwā How to pronounce outweigh (audio)
outweighed; outweighing; outweighs

transitive verb

: to exceed in weight, value, or importance
the advantages outweigh the disadvantages

Examples of outweigh in a Sentence

She outweighs her sister by 10 pounds. This issue outweighs all others in importance.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Europe’s opportunity The challenges facing European firms are formidable, but they are outweighed by Europe’s strengths—its industrial expertise, high-quality data and regulatory standards, and commitment to responsible innovation. Dave McCann, Fortune, 26 Nov. 2025 But the health benefits of drinking lemon water are many and outweigh any potential downsides (IMO). Ana Morales, Vogue, 26 Nov. 2025 The particles of this mysterious substance are now estimated to outweigh the particles that make up everyday matter by a ratio of five to one. Robert Lea, Space.com, 25 Nov. 2025 Even so, experts warn that the costs to Japan in the short- and medium-term outweigh the boost to Takaichi’s domestic popularity. Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 24 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outweigh

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outweigh was in 1534

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outweigh.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outweigh. Accessed 2 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

outweigh

verb
out·​weigh -ˈwā How to pronounce outweigh (audio)
: to be greater than in weight, value, or importance
the benefits outweigh the disadvantages
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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