be outdone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be outdone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing that someone does not want to be surpassed or exceeded by another person in a particular achievement or quality. Example: "She always strives to excel in her work because she refuses to be outdone by her colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not to be outdone, Maj.

The New York Times

France was not to be outdone.

The New York Times

Mr. Koch was not to be outdone.

The New York Times

But Zorn would not be outdone.

The New York Times

But Prior 2 won't be outdone.

The New Yorker

Labour was determined not to be outdone.

The Guardian

Not to be outdone, Democrats are also joining the fray.

The New York Times

His old employer is not to be outdone either.

The New York Times

Not to be outdone, Paramount may join the party.

The New York Times

Not to be outdone, the guys get even fatter.

The Guardian - Books

Not to be outdone, Smith immediately hit back.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "be outdone", consider the context and ensure the action that follows is something that can reasonably be compared to the previous action.

Common error

Avoid using "be outdone" in situations where there is no element of competition or comparison. It implies a drive to equal or surpass, so ensure that element is present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be outdone" functions as a passive verb, typically used to indicate that someone is determined not to be surpassed or excelled by another. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use in contexts of competition and comparison, such as in news and media reporting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be outdone" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey a desire not to be surpassed by others. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral formality level. To ensure effective usage, maintain awareness of the competitive nuance and avoid using it in non-comparative situations. Consider alternatives like "be surpassed" or "be exceeded" depending on the specific context to enhance clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not be surpassed

Focuses on avoiding being exceeded or overtaken.

not be excelled

Emphasizes avoiding being surpassed in skill or quality.

not be overshadowed

Highlights avoiding being made less significant or prominent.

not be outshone

Focuses on avoiding being surpassed in brilliance or performance.

not be defeated

Emphasizes avoiding being beaten or overcome in a competition.

not be eclipsed

Highlights avoiding being obscured or diminished in importance.

not be bested

Focuses on avoiding being defeated or surpassed in a contest or competition.

not be outmatched

Emphasizes avoiding being surpassed in ability or skill.

not be second-best

Highlights avoiding being inferior or less desirable.

not be upstaged

Focuses on avoiding having attention diverted from oneself by someone else.

FAQs

How can I use "be outdone" in a sentence?

You can use "be outdone" to indicate that someone is determined not to be surpassed by another. For instance, "Not to "be outdone", she also baked a cake for the party."

What does it mean when someone says "I don't want to be outdone"?

It means they don't want to be surpassed or exceeded by someone else in a particular activity or achievement. It implies a sense of competition or rivalry.

What are some synonyms for "be outdone"?

Alternatives include phrases like "be surpassed", "be exceeded", or "be outshone", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "He didn't want to be outdone by her success"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. It means he didn't want her success to surpass or overshadow his own achievements. The phrase is often used in situations involving competition or comparison.