outpace

American  

[out-peys] / ˌaʊtˈpeɪs /

verb (used with object)

outpaced, outpacing

1. to surpass or exceed, as in speed, development, or performance.

   a company that has consistently outpaced the competition in sales.

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outpace British  

/ aʊtˈpeɪs /

verb

1. to run or move faster than (someone or something else)

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Etymology

Origin of outpace

First recorded in 1565–75; out- + pace ¹

Explanation

To outpace is to move faster or to improve more quickly than someone else. A runner who outpaces everyone else will win the race. You can brag that your bicycle outpaces your friend's motorcycle, or comment that a six year-old easily outpaces her little brother at the playground. There are also companies that outpace their competition, by developing a new technology or product faster. Economists often talk about prices, sales, or growth that outpaces previous examples.

Example Sentences

Business Travel Airports and Hotels in Emerging Markets Outpace the West Hongqiao International Airport in Shanghai is part of a $9 billion investment program.

From New York Times • May 1, 2013

Related Words

• beat
• dominate
• eclipse
• excel
• outdistance
• outdo
• outmatch
• outperform
• outplay
• outrun
• outshine