I defeated him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I defeated him" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where you have won against someone in a competition, game, or conflict. Example: "In the final match, I defeated him and secured the championship title."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"How would I be able to live with myself if I defeated him?" Everything seemed to stop at this moment.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

If Barack Obama had been born 10 years earlier and had been a candidate for the Democratic nomination in 1992, neither I nor Bill Clinton would have defeated him.

The New York Times

I don't know whether I can defeat him again".

The New York Times - Sports

After another defeat Owens admitted: "I don't know whether I can defeat him again".

The Guardian - Sport

The Romanian peasants did not join his forces, however; the Russian emperor Alexander I repudiated him, and the Turks quickly defeated him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I played the Porthcawl golf course, not my opponent, and defeated him one up.

The Guardian - Sport

"They defeated him".

The New York Times

Peeling potatoes defeated him.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The Ottomans crushingly defeated him in 1473.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Only two places defeated him.

The Guardian

before she defeated him in 2012.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I defeated him", consider the context and choose a synonym if a more formal or descriptive tone is desired. For example, use "I triumphed over him" in a formal setting.

Common error

Avoid using "I defeated him" in highly formal writing or speeches. It can sound too informal. Opt for alternatives like "I overcame him" or "I prevailed against him" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I defeated him" functions as a declarative statement, asserting the speaker's victory over another individual. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I defeated him" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating the speaker's victory over another person. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. While versatile, the register of "I defeated him" is considered neutral, making it suitable for news reporting, narratives, and general communication. To enhance writing, consider the context; formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "I triumphed over him". Steer clear from using "I defeated him" too often in formal essays, opting instead for alternatives. Common sources include The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I won against him

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the victory.

I overcame him

Highlights the effort and struggle involved in achieving victory.

I triumphed over him

Emphasizes a more significant victory or achievement.

I was victorious over him

Emphasizes the state of being victorious.

I prevailed against him

Suggests overcoming significant odds or challenges.

I conquered him

Suggests a more complete and decisive victory, often in a metaphorical sense.

I bested him

A slightly more formal and old-fashioned way of saying "I beat him".

I beat him

A more casual and informal expression of victory.

I got the better of him

Indicates that you outsmarted or outmaneuvered him.

I outdid him

Focuses on performing better than him.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "I defeated him"?

You can use alternatives like "I triumphed over him", "I won against him", or "I overcame him" depending on the context.

Is "I defeated him" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "I defeated him" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard subject-verb-object structure.

When is it appropriate to use "I defeated him"?

It is appropriate to use "I defeated him" in contexts where you want to express that you won against someone in a competition, game, or conflict. The register is generally considered neutral, suitable for both informal and news-related settings.

How does "I defeated him" compare to "I beat him"?

"I defeated him" is slightly more formal than "I beat him". While both convey the same meaning, "I defeated him" might be preferred in more professional or formal contexts. Also, the term "defeated" is more explicit in conveying meaning of a competition. It may not fit the setting well when referring to e.g. scuffles between two people. Instead, consider using beat.