Synonyms

outweigh

American

[out-wey] / ˌaʊtˈweɪ /

verb (used with object)

to exceed in value, importance, influence, etc..

The advantages of the plan outweighed its defects.

Synonyms:

override, eclipse, overshadow, surpass
to exceed in weight.

The champion will probably outweigh his opponent.
to be too heavy or burdensome for.

Collapse may follow if the load outweighs its supports.

outweigh British

/ ˌaʊtˈweɪ /

verb

to prevail over; overcome

his desire outweighed his discretion
to be more important or significant than
to be heavier than

"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 outweigh

First recorded in 1590–1600; out- + weigh ¹

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.

The good times have outweighed the bad ones, though.

From The Wall Street Journal

I decide my need to know mostly outweighs my preference to not know.

From Literature

“With the valuation having taken a substantial cut, even considering the overall decrease in valuations across software, we believe the upside potential far outweighs the downside risk,” Moerdler wrote.

From MarketWatch

I don’t think theoretical value ought to outweigh public confidence under any circumstances.

From Barron's

New laws could lead to unintended consequences for other vital democratic interests that may outweigh uncertain benefits.

From The Wall Street Journal

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