What does outweigh mean?
The verb outweigh means to be greater or more significant than something else in terms of weight, value, or importance. It is often used when comparing two or more things, such as the benefits and drawbacks of a decision, or the qualifications and experience of two candidates. Outweigh can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it tends to be more common in written or formal discussions. The verb is useful for making comparisons and evaluating the relative importance of different factors. For example, one might say that the benefits of a new policy outweigh the costs, or that a candidate's experience outweighs their lack of qualifications.
verbTo be greater or more significant than in weight, value, or importance.
- To be heavier or more significant than something else.
- To have a greater advantage or importance than something else.
"The benefits of the new policy outweigh the costs."
"The pros outweigh the cons in this situation."
"Her experience outweighs his in terms of qualifications."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of outweigh
The verb outweigh originated in the 15th century from the prefix out- and the verb weigh, which comes from Old English wegan, meaning to carry or bear. The prefix out- intensifies the meaning of weigh, suggesting a comparison or exceeding of weight.
How outweigh is actually used
Often used in formal or written contexts, especially in discussions of pros and cons, or when comparing values or importance.