# outclassed

/ˈaʊtˌkɫæst/ (US) · /aʊtklˈɑːst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/outclassed
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

to beat someone easily because you are much better than them, especially in a sport or contest.

For teachers: to defeat or surpass an opponent decisively through superior skill, quality, or performance.

## Examples

- Our team outclasses their team in every match.
- In the final, the younger player was completely outclassed by the champion.
- Despite months of preparation, the visiting side was outclassed in midfield, where sharper passing and faster decisions exposed every gap in their shape.

## Synonyms

thrash, crush, trounce

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.