ENGLISH
REFERENCE

overrule

v.
C1 Advanced US //ˈoʊvɝˌɹuɫ// UK //ˌəʊvəɹˈuːl// over·rule

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.

Synonyms
Origin

From over- + rule.

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