outweigh

verb

out·​weigh ˌau̇t-ˈwā 

outweighed; outweighing; outweighs

transitive verb

: to exceed in weight, value, or importance

the advantages outweigh the disadvantages

Synonyms of outweigh

• exceed
• overshadow
• overweigh
• mean
• overbalance

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

If gilts continue to trade at a steep discount to peers amid market fears of unfunded policies, the cost to households through higher borrowing rates could far outweigh the savings from a VAT cut. — Steve Sedgwick, CNBC, 21 July 2026

Without human trials, clinicians cannot reliably determine appropriate dosing, long-term risks or whether benefits outweigh risks. — Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

But designer Gideon Mendelson told Architectural Digest that personal taste should outweigh trend cycles. — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 21 July 2026

But right now the benefits don’t seem to outweigh the cost of this time in the season. — Mike Fitzpatrick, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outweigh

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

Kids Definition

outweigh

verb

out·​weigh -ˈwā 

: to be greater than in weight, value, or importance

the benefits outweigh the disadvantages