outlast - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
outlast Word Meanings
- to last longer than someone or something
- to survive beyond a certain time or event
- to endure more than others
outlast Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
outlast Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/aʊtˈlɑːst/
US
/aʊtˈlæst/
outlast Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'out-' (beyond) + 'last' (continue in a specified state). Historical origin: Middle English, from 'outlasten', from Old English 'ūtlǣstan', related to Dutch 'uitblijven'. Memory image: Imagine a race where one runner outlasts all others, crossing the finish line after everyone else has given up, representing endurance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Outlast means to last longer than someone or something, to survive beyond a given time or event, or to endure more than others in a contest or challenging situation. It implies sustained endurance rather than swiftness, and can describe people, objects, processes, or trends. The prefix out- signals beyond, while last refers to continuing in a state or condition; the form comes from Middle English outlasten, derived from Old English ūtlǣstan. Memory cue: imagine a long race where one runner keeps moving while rivals falter, finally crossing the line after everyone else has given up, illustrating stubborn endurance.
Usage Reminders
- - Focus on endurance and resilience, not speed.
- - Use with people, objects, or processes that persist or survive longer.
- - Pair with adverbs of degree (e. g., significantly, surprisingly) to tone the endurance.
- - Don’t use for trivial, short-lived events.
- - Distinguish from 'outlive' when the emphasis is on ongoing persistence beyond a time frame.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing 'outlast' with a mere longer duration; it implies endurance under pressure or competition, not just time.
- Thinking it always means 'winning'; sometimes you simply outlast without gaining the lead.
- Assuming it only applies to people; objects and processes can outlast too.
- Mistaking it for 'outlive' in all contexts; some cases focus on ongoing persistence rather than lifespan.
- Using it for brief, temporary events rather than long-term persistence.
Thinking Differences
In English, outlast emphasizes endurance under pressure and competition, often implying strategic persistence rather than sheer speed. Learners tend to mix it with generic 'last longer' or confuse it with 'outlive' when the emphasis is on ongoing persistence over a period.
Learning Tips
- memorize the prefix out- as 'beyond' to cue longer-lasting contexts
- pair outlast with verbs of action that imply endurance (continue, persist, endure)
- note the difference from outlive in contexts about lifespan vs. duration under pressure
- practice with competitive sentences to highlight perseverance, not speed
- use examples from sports, technology, or processes to show versatility
- check collocations like outsustain, outwait cautiously to avoid overgeneralization
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'outlast' mean?
A.To move quickly past something
B.To live longer than something else
C.To be out of reach
D.To last longer in spirit
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of 'outlast' in a sentence.
A.She decided to outlast the storm by staying indoors.
B.I hope to outlast my friends at dinner.
C.He outlast the competition easily.
D.The tree will outlast because it is very old.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'outlast'?
A.Endure
B.Survive
C.Terminate
D.Finish
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'outlast'?
A.Continue
B.Succumb
C.Persist
D.Overcome
Step 5: Mastery
Can you provide a real-life scenario where someone might 'outlast' something?
A.A business that survives an economic downturn lasts longer than its competitors.
B.An ancient species still thrives despite climate change.
C.A marathon runner finished the race before anyone else.
D.The sun will shine bright for another day.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App