outweigh

[ out-wey ]

verb (used with object)

1. to exceed in value, importance, influence, etc.:

   The advantages of the plan outweighed its defects.

   Synonyms: override, eclipse, overshadow, surpass

2. to exceed in weight:

   The champion will probably outweigh his opponent.

3. to be too heavy or burdensome for:

   Collapse may follow if the load outweighs its supports.

outweigh

/ ˌaʊtˈweɪ /

verb

1. to prevail over; overcome

   his desire outweighed his discretion

2. to be more important or significant than
3. to be heavier than

Word History and Origins

Origin of outweigh¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; out- + weigh ¹

Example Sentences

Habits happen when automatic responses outweigh our ability to consciously control them.

From Science Daily

According to the Supreme Court of Canada, the right to self-determination outweighs other interests, “including what physicians may think is in the patient’s best interests.”

From Salon

But fire officials say the practice saves lives, and that the benefit of protecting ecosystems by minimizing fire spread outweighs the potential harms.

From Los Angeles Times

“Any way you slice it, our estimates are that the benefits are going to vastly outweigh the costs,” said Gregory Pierce, research director of the Luskin Center.

From Los Angeles Times

"Finding and treating cancers early outweighs the harms of over-treatment by four times," the charity's chief executive, Oliver Kemp, says.

From BBC

Related Words

• cancel out
• counterbalance
• eclipse
• exceed
• offset
• overcome
• overshadow
• prevail
• surpass