VocabDictionary

outclassed

/ˌaʊtˈklɑːst/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To surpass someone or something in quality, skill, or status to such a degree that they appear inferior.

Example Sentences:
  • The underdog team was completely outclassed by the defending champions in the final match.
  • Despite her years of practice, she felt outclassed by the professional musicians at the conservatory.
2.adjective

Being in a position of inferiority due to a significant difference in skill, quality, or rank.

Example Sentences:
  • The outclassed opponent surrendered early in the second round.
  • We felt utterly outclassed by the sophisticated technology used by our competitors.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “outclassed”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Formed by the prefix 'out-' (meaning to surpass or exceed) + 'class' (from the Latin 'classis', meaning a division or rank). The term emerged in the late 19th century to describe a situation where one party is so superior in rank, skill, or quality that the other is rendered inferior by comparison.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a student who is so smart they are 'out' of their 'class' because they are performing at a much higher level than their peers.

Frequently Asked Questions About “outclassed

1. What is the meaning of “outclassed” in English?

In English, outclassed (verb) is defined as: “To surpass someone or something in quality, skill, or status to such a degree that they appear inferior.”.

2. How do you use “outclassed” in a sentence?

The underdog team was completely outclassed by the defending champions in the final match.

3. What are English synonyms of “outclassed”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “outclassed”?

Formed by the prefix 'out-' (meaning to surpass or exceed) + 'class' (from the Latin 'classis', meaning a division or rank). The term emerged in the late 19th century to describe a situation where one party is so superior in rank, skill, or quality that the other is rendered inferior by comparison.