Outpace

v. energetic, capable professional

What it means

To advance or perform faster than a comparison.

Reach for it when describing a rate of progress that moves convincingly ahead

Home insulation upgrades began to outpace the annual target.

Words to choose between 6

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
playful
everyday
warm
professional
formal
  • playful

    outrun

    Fits when literal speed or vivid metaphor suits

    Careful Outrun sounds competitive in a measured report.

  • everyday

    overtake

    Fits when someone moves from behind to ahead

    Careful Overtake describes a position change; outpace may begin in front.

  • warm

    lead

    Fits when being ahead matters most

    Careful Lead can describe position without faster progress.

  • professional

    exceed

    Fits when a numerical target is crossed

    Careful Exceed compares amount, not pace.

  • formal

    outstrip

    Fits when growth leaves a comparison well behind

    Careful Outstrip can overstate a slight lead.

  • formal

    surpass

    Fits when overall performance moves beyond a standard

    Careful Surpass does not specifically compare speed.

Opposites 3

  • lag
  • trail
  • fall behind

Common phrases 3

  • outpace demand

    New training places now outpace demand in three districts.

  • outpace expectations

    The seedlings continued to outpace expectations through spring.

  • outpace the target

    Community installations outpace the target for a second month.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, public domain Updated