outdo
UK: aʊtˈduː | US: aʊtˈduː
vt. to surpass or exceed in performance or achievement
vt. to do better than someone else
The word "outdo" combines "out," meaning "beyond" or "externally," with "do," meaning "to perform" or "to act." It originated in Middle English (late 14th century) as a straightforward compound, reflecting the idea of "doing beyond" or "excelling." The logic is transparent: to "outdo" someone is to perform better than them, extending the basic meaning of "do" with a competitive edge.
She always tries to outdo her classmates in exams.
The chef outdid himself with tonight's special dish.
Their latest product aims to outdo all competitors in speed and efficiency.
He outdid his previous record by running the marathon in under three hours.
No one could outdo her in terms of creativity and originality.