What does outdo mean?
Outdo is a transitive verb meaning to do better than another person or thing. It is used when someone or something surpasses a competitor, an expectation, a previous result, or the speaker's own earlier performance. The phrase outdo oneself is particularly idiomatic: it means to exceed one's previous standard, often by making a greater effort. Outdo is common in both British and American English and is used across formal and informal contexts, including discussions of achievement, competition, creative work, examinations, and sports. Although it can mean merely to exceed a quantity, it often suggests superiority in quality, success, or performance. The word is a transparent compound of the prefix out- and the basic English verb do, making it easy to understand once its meaning is known. Its useful distinction from similar terms is that it explicitly centers on surpassing someone else's performance or achievement.
verbTo do better than someone or something; to surpass or exceed another person or thing.
- To do better than, surpass, or exceed another person or thing.
- To surpass one's own previous performance, as in outdo oneself.
"Her second novel outdid the sales of her debut and established her as a major author."
"The team's innovative strategy outdid that of every rival in the competition."
"She outdid herself in the final, achieving a personal best that few had thought possible."
Outdo is a remarkably simple compound: just out plus do, meaning to go beyond what someone else has done.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does outdo come from?
Outdo is an English compound formed from the native Germanic prefix out- and the Old English verb dōn, meaning “to do” or “to perform.” The compound is attested from the early 17th century, with its modern meaning developing through the idea of doing more than another person. Words such as undo and redo are later or parallel compounds built on the same English verbal root.
Related word forms
How outdo is actually used
The word is generally neutral in register but commonly conveys a direct comparison. It can be used for measurable results, creative achievement, or personal improvement. The expression outdo oneself is especially common and implies surpassing one's own previous effort or achievement.
Easily confused with outdo
Outdo is a verb meaning to surpass or perform better than someone or something, whereas outdoor is an adjective meaning relating to or suitable for the open air.