overtake
UK: ˌəʊvəˈteɪk | US: ˌoʊvərˈteɪk
vt. to catch up with and pass while moving in the same direction
vt. to suddenly or unexpectedly surpass someone or something
vt. (of an event or circumstance) to happen abruptly and affect someone strongly
The word "overtake" combines the Old English prefix "over-" (meaning "above" or "beyond") with the verb "take" (from Old English "tacan," meaning "to grasp" or "seize"). Originally, it described physically surpassing someone or something in motion (e.g., a horse overtaking another). Over time, it expanded metaphorically to include abstract surpassing (e.g., events overtaking plans). The logic is clear: "over" implies exceeding a limit, while "take" suggests action—together, they convey surpassing through movement or force.
The speeding car managed to overtake the truck on the highway.
Technological advancements may overtake traditional methods in the next decade.
A sudden storm overtook the hikers before they could reach shelter.
Her enthusiasm was overtaken by exhaustion after hours of work.
The company aims to overtake its competitors in market share this year.