Synonyms

outplay

American

[out-pley] / ˌaʊtˈpleɪ /

verb (used with object)

to play better than.

outplay British

/ aʊtˈpleɪ /

verb

to perform better than one's opponent in a sport or game

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of outplay

First recorded in 1640–50; out- + play

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite injuries and an occasional slow start, the Chargers are playing great defense and Justin Herbert should be able to outplay the Giants’ limited offense.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 25, 2025

In 2000, millions tuned in to watch Richard Hatch outwit, outplay, and outlast his teammates and competitors to become the first Survivor.

From Slate • Oct. 27, 2024

You don’t have to have seen “Survivor” in years to know the whole point is to outwit, outplay and outlast by any means necessary including betrayal.

From Salon • Feb. 24, 2024

Newcastle are a big side and the moment they realised they couldn't outplay Arsenal they tried to intimidate them and, all credit to the Gunners, they were having none of it.

From BBC • May 8, 2023

Yale may outplay Harvard, but if Harvard sufficiently out-cheers Yale she wins, and to the rooters belong the praise.

From An American at Oxford by Corbin, John

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023