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

Some thinkers, like the author and journalist Thomas L Friedman, propose that–in a world where the internet has made information so readily available–IQ is outweighed by curiosity when it’s combined with passion. —Barnaby Lashbrooke, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026

While that’s a boost for exporters, leaders in the region are concerned that broader economic disruption from a conflict would outweigh the extra income. —Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 30 Jan. 2026

The rewards, Wilson insisted, far outweigh the time spent with his snowblower and shovels. —Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 30 Jan. 2026

The enterprise software company beat analysts’ earnings expectations, but Wall Street’s worries around how artificial intelligence could disrupt the sector outweighed the positive results. —Alex Harring, CNBC, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outweigh

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

Kids Definition

outweigh

verb

out·​weigh -ˈwā 

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

the benefits outweigh the disadvantages