Word
outnumber
To be greater in number than another group or thing.
Meanings
To be more numerous than another group, collection, or individual.
Definition
When one group or set of items "outnumbers" another, it means that the first group has a larger quantity or count than the second. This verb is used to compare the numerical strength of two entities. It highlights a disparity in numbers, often implying an advantage or disadvantage.
Examples
- The peaceful protesters easily outnumbered the small group of counter-demonstrators.
- In some species, females significantly outnumber males, affecting mating dynamics.
- The company's customer support requests now outnumber the available staff to handle them.
- During the board meeting, employees hoped their supporters would outnumber the opposing voices.
- Our small defense team was vastly outnumbered by the attacking forces on the battlefield.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes incorrectly add 'by' after 'outnumber', as in 'outnumber by a large margin', but 'outnumber' already conveys the comparative idea of quantity.
More verbs
- analyze To examine something carefully in order to understand it or explain it.
- scrutinize To scrutinize something is to examine it very carefully and in detail.
- affect To affect something is to influence it or cause it to change.
- allude To allude means to mention or suggest something indirectly without saying it clearly.
- elude To elude someone or something is to avoid being caught, understood, or remembered.