What does outpacing mean?
Outpacing means moving faster than, outrunning, or surpassing another person, thing, or measure. It is the present-participle form of the verb outpace and is especially common when describing one person or system gaining on another, whether literally or figuratively. For example, demand may outpace production, investment may outpace earnings, or a company may outpace its competitors. The word is neutral in tone but suggests a continuing comparison in which one side is consistently ahead. Its figurative uses often emphasize sustained progress rather than a single result. Although outpacing commonly concerns speed, it can also describe growth or performance developing at a faster rate. This broader sense makes the word useful in business, economics, technology, sport, and discussions of social or historical change.
verb (present participle)To move faster than or surpass someone or something in speed, rate of progress, growth, or performance.
- To move faster than, outrun, or surpass in speed, rate of progress, growth, or performance.
"The company's innovation strategy is outpacing that of its established competitors."
"Demand for electric vehicles continues to outpace production."
"The smaller team managed to outpace its larger rivals in the second half."
Outpacing is the language of widening a lead: the pace is not merely quick, but quicker than the competition can match.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does outpacing come from?
Outpacing was formed in English from the prefix out- and the word pace, with an early-17th-century history. Its development follows the established sense of out- meaning 'beyond' or 'surpassing.' Related English forms include paced, pacing, pacer, and pacesetter, all of which belong to the same word family centered on pace.
Related word forms
How outpacing is actually used
Outpacing is chiefly used as the present participle of outpace. It is neutral in register and can describe literal speed or figurative advances in growth, development, and performance.
Easily confused with outpacing
Outpace is the base verb, while outpacing is its present-participle form, as in a runner who is outpacing the field.