English Reference
Verb

overrule

v.
C1 Advanced US /ˈoʊvɝˌɹuɫ/ UK /ˌəʊvəɹˈuːl/ over·rule UK spelling overruled, overrules Law

v.to decide that a previous decision or law is not valid. This usually happens when a higher authority, like a judge or a boss, changes the original choice.

v.to annul or set aside a previous decision, ruling, or law by a higher authority. Transitive — requires a direct object.


SIMPLE

The judge decided to overrule the jury's verdict.

CONTEXTUAL

The supreme court chose to overrule the lower court's decision, citing a new interpretation of the constitution.

COMPLEX

While the initial committee rejected the proposal, the board of directors eventually overrule their decision, recognizing the long-term strategic benefits of the merger.

With such a change, political leaders who overrule the science would have to do so on the public record.

The Conversation· 19 Aug 2026

Judges at the High Court overrule the Parole Board's decision to release Glyn Razzell.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

From over- + rule.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated