Thesaurus

surpass

Q: How does the verb 'surpass' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of surpass are exceed , excel , outdo , outstrip , and transcend . While all these words mean "to go or be beyond a stated or implied limit, measure, or degree," surpass suggests superiority in quality, merit, or skill. // the book surpassed our expectations

Q: When might 'exceed' be a better fit than 'surpass'?

Although the words exceed and surpass have much in common, exceed implies going beyond a limit set by authority or established by custom or by prior achievement. // exceed the speed limit

Q: Where would 'excel' be a reasonable alternative to 'surpass'?

The meanings of excel and surpass largely overlap; however, excel implies preeminence in achievement or quality and may suggest superiority to all others. // excels in mathematics

Q: In what contexts can 'outdo' take the place of 'surpass'?

The words outdo and surpass can be used in similar contexts, but outdo applies to a bettering or exceeding what has been done before. // outdid herself this time

Q: When is it sensible to use 'outstrip' instead of 'surpass'?

While in some cases nearly identical to surpass , outstrip suggests surpassing in a race or competition. // outstripped other firms in sales

Q: When can 'transcend' be used instead of 'surpass'?

While the synonyms transcend and surpass are close in meaning, transcend implies a rising or extending notably above or beyond ordinary limits. // transcended the values of their culture

verb

Save Word

Synonyms & Antonyms of surpass

1 to be greater, better, or stronger than

she always tried to surpass her older brother at anything he did

Synonyms for surpass

Words Related to surpass

Phrases Synonymous with surpass

Near Antonyms for surpass

lose (to)

2 to go beyond the limit of

the sales of the band's newest CD have surpassed the combined sales of its last two albums

Synonyms for surpass

Words Related to surpass

Frequently Asked Questions About surpass

How does the verb surpass contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of surpass are exceed, excel, outdo, outstrip, and transcend. While all these words mean "to go or be beyond a stated or implied limit, measure, or degree," surpass suggests superiority in quality, merit, or skill.

the book surpassed our expectations

When might exceed be a better fit than surpass?

Although the words exceed and surpass have much in common, exceed implies going beyond a limit set by authority or established by custom or by prior achievement.

exceed the speed limit

Where would excel be a reasonable alternative to surpass?

The meanings of excel and surpass largely overlap; however, excel implies preeminence in achievement or quality and may suggest superiority to all others.

excels in mathematics