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.
But research indicates long-term benefits of the therapy could outweigh the risks. Karina Zaiets, USA Today, 30 June 2025 Members of her trade group are hoping that Trump's showmanship will outweigh his protectionist instincts, and allow for a tariff reprieve. Scott Horsley, NPR, 28 June 2025 Circle must therefore persuade market-makers that regulatory certainty outweighs a few basis points of spread. Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025 But the principle of his stance outweighed any external anxiety that might have accompanied the online spat. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 24 June 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 7 Jul. 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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