Surpass
v.capable, hopefulformal
What it means
To do better than a standard or previous achievement.
Reach for it when describing performance or quality that goes beyond a standard, rival, or earlier result
The new filter may surpass the old model in every test.
Choose between these
7- playful
when a record or previous high point is beaten
not when Top is too casual for nuanced differences in quality.
- everyday
when plain language suits improving on a prior result
not when As a verb, better can sound awkward when the comparison is not explicit.
- professional
exceed
when a measurable limit or expectation is passed
not when Exceed is neutral and numerical, while surpass often highlights comparative merit.
- professional
when results are better than a competitor or benchmark
not when Beauty, kindness, and abstract quality are not naturally said to outperform.
- formal
when growth or pace moves clearly ahead of comparison
not when Outstrip can sound competitive where the aim is personal progress.
- formal
when something rises beyond a category, limit, or ordinary concern
not when Transcend is philosophical and less suited to a score or sales target.
- literary
eclipse
when one achievement makes another seem much less impressive
not when Eclipse implies overshadowing and can belittle the earlier work.
Said against
3- trail
- underperform
- fall short
It naturally appears in
3- surpass expectations
The repaired turbine continued to surpass expectations through winter.
- surpass a record
This year's donations may surpass the previous record by Friday.
- surpass the original
The community production managed to surpass the original in warmth.