What does outdistance mean?
Outdistance is a verb that means to be ahead of someone or something in distance, speed, or achievement. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and is often used in sports and racing to describe a competitor who is ahead of others. In a more general sense, outdistance can be used to describe someone or something that is ahead of others in terms of achievement or progress. The word has a strong connotation of superiority and can be used to describe a situation where one person or thing is significantly better than others. Outdistance is a useful word for describing competitive situations where one person or thing is trying to outdo others. It is also a word that can be used in a more abstract sense to describe a situation where one idea or concept is more advanced or superior to others.
verbTo be ahead of someone or something in distance, speed, or achievement.
- To be ahead of someone or something in distance, speed, or achievement.
"The car outdistanced the bike on the straightaway."
"The car outdistanced the bike on the straightaway."
"The athlete outdistanced her competitors in the marathon."
The plural form of outdistance is used to describe a situation where multiple people or things are being outdistanced.
"The athlete outdistanced her competitors in the marathon."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of outdistance
The word outdistance is derived from the prefix 'out-' meaning 'beyond' or 'outside', and the word 'distance' meaning 'a measure of length or space'. The word has been in use since the 15th century and has been influenced by the French word 'dépasser' meaning 'to surpass'.
Usage notes
Outdistance can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often used in sports and racing to describe a competitor who is ahead of others. It can also be used in a more general sense to describe someone or something that is ahead of others in terms of achievement or progress.