1
Exceed a record
Perform beyond an earlier achievement.
Example
The new telescope surpassed the resolution of its predecessor.
surpass
/səˈpɑːs/ · suh-PAHSverb
To exceed or go beyond a person, level, expectation, or achievement.
Use surpass when performance, quantity, quality, or impact moves beyond a comparison point.
What surpass Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Go beyond expectations
Produce a result better or greater than predicted.
Example
Attendance surpassed the organisers' estimate.
3
Outperform a comparison
Become greater in quality, amount, or effectiveness.
Example
By midsummer, solar generation surpassed coal output.
Use surpass Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The new telescope surpassed the resolution of its predecessor.
Attendance surpassed the organisers' estimate.
By midsummer, solar generation surpassed coal output.
Precision Matters
Surpass overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
surpass
vs.Goes beyond a comparison point.
augment
Increases something already present.
surpass
vs.Exceeds another in degree or performance.
prevail
Ultimately succeeds despite opposition.
surpass
vs.Is a comparative action.
exorbitant
Describes an unreasonably high amount.
surpass
vs.Moves beyond a standard or rival.
peripheral
Remains secondary to the central matter.
Test surpass in Context
Performance goes beyond the stated benchmark.
1
The revised battery not only met the target of twelve hours but managed to ___ it, powering the device for nearly sixteen hours.