outstrip - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
outstrip Word Meanings
- to surpass or exceed in performance
- to get ahead of someone or something
- to become larger or more successful than others
outstrip Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
outstrip Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/aʊtstrɪp/
US
/aʊtstrɪp/
outstrip Word Etymology
Out- = beyond + strip = to remove; origin: Old English; imagine someone running down a track and leaving others behind, completely stripping away the competition.
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
Outstrip means to surpass or exceed someone or something in performance, to get ahead of others, or to become larger or more successful than competitors. It is a transitive verb used with a direct object: you outstrip rivals, outstrip expectations, or outstrip market growth. The phrase emphasizes speed, progress, or scale, often in competitive contexts such as sports, business, or metrics. Although similar to exceed or outrun, outstrip carries a stronger sense of leaving others behind and moving ahead decisively. Its etymology traces to out- (beyond) and strip (to remove), reinforcing the idea of pulling away from a pack. In everyday use, choose outstrip when competition or growth is clearly surpassed.
Usage Reminders
- Use outstrip for clear, measurable lead in performance or growth.
- Prefer outstrip when the lead is substantial, not just slightly better.
- Always follow with a direct object: you outstrip rivals, not you outstrip.
- Use the passive form to show being outstripped: is outstripped by.
- Reserve for competitive contexts (sports, market share, metrics).
- Avoid mixing with non-competitive verbs like exceed in some contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Think it means simply 'to remove' because of 'strip' in the word; it does not.
- Confuse with exceed when the lead is not substantial.
- Use with 'of' or 'from' where a direct object is required.
- Think it only applies to sports, not markets or data.
- Assume 'outstrip' can be passive without 'by' (is outstripped by) misunderstandings.
Thinking Differences
English tends to frame outstrip as a strong, competitive leap rather than a small improvement; learners may opt for exceed or outpace in slightly different contexts and miss the nuance of leaving others far behind.
Learning Tips
- Pair outstrip with clear objects: outstrip rivals, outstrip expectations.
- Compare with synonyms: surpass, exceed, outpace, outrun to choose nuance.
- Study common collocations in business, sports, and tech contexts.
- Practice passive: is outstripped by + noun to discuss being surpassed.
- Use data to support claims of growth or performance.
- Watch for context: only use when the improvement is substantial.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'outstrip'?
A.To surpass or exceed
B.To catch up with
C.To slow down
D.To ignore
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'outstrip' used correctly?
A.He struggled to outstrip his own limits.
B.She was able to outstrip the competition and win the race.
C.The company hoped to outstrip their sales target.
D.The team decided to outstrip their training schedule.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym of 'outstrip'?
A.Match
B.Surpass
C.Fall short
D.Tie
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'outstrip'?
A.Achieve
B.Exceed
C.Follow
D.Lag behind
Step 5: Mastery
How would you apply the word 'outstrip' in a real-life context?
A.Discussing a situation where one country outstripped another in economic growth
B.Explaining how a team outstripped their competition in a sports event
C.All of the above
D.Describing someone who outstripped their own expectations in a project
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