that surpasses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that surpasses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that exceeds or goes beyond a certain standard, limit, or expectation. Example: "Her performance in the competition was exceptional, showcasing a talent that surpasses all others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The peace that surpasses understanding.

The New York Times - Books

He has given us a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Independent

Some American titles evidently possess a currency abroad that surpasses their status at home.

The New York Times

His astonishing theatrical vocation shines with technique but reveals a lack of charisma that surpasses it.

The New Yorker

People have acquired a desire for technology that surpasses human comprehension.

The New York Times

The new car feels far more legitimate, with a cabin that surpasses expectations for its class.

The New York Times

Any company that surpasses it will do so by building on those gains, not reversing them.

The Economist

These requirements give willful blindness an appropriately limited scope that surpasses recklessness and negligence.

Cornell University

It can all lead to a contract that surpasses the gross domestic products of some nations.

The New York Times

A new rechargeable battery technology cannot be foreseen today that surpasses this.

Materials Research Bulletin

A year will come someday, though, that surpasses its $4.4 trillion of action.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing achievements, use "that surpasses" to clearly indicate the level of excellence or accomplishment that was achieved.

Common error

Avoid using "that surpasses" in simple comparative sentences where "better than" or "greater than" would suffice. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious. For example, instead of "a score that surpasses 70", consider "a score better than 70" in casual contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that surpasses" functions as a relative clause introducing a description of something exceeding a specific limit, standard, or expectation. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English, as exemplified by the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that surpasses" is a versatile phrase that functions as a relative clause to indicate exceeding a limit or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. While common in news, science, and academic contexts, its appropriateness depends on the audience and can be replaced with simpler alternatives like "that exceeds" in less formal settings. To avoid overuse, use "that surpasses" when you want to emphasize exceptional quality or achievement rather than simple comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that exceeds

Replaces "surpasses" with a more direct and common synonym, focusing on the act of going beyond a limit.

that goes beyond

A more descriptive and less formal alternative, suitable for general contexts.

that transcends

Implies a higher level of surpassing, often used in more philosophical or abstract contexts.

that is greater than

A simple and direct comparison, focusing on a difference in magnitude.

that outstrips

Suggests surpassing in terms of speed or progress, often used in competitive situations.

that is superior to

Highlights the higher quality or effectiveness of something compared to another.

that overshadows

Indicates that something becomes less important or noticeable in comparison.

that eclipses

Similar to overshadows but often used for more dramatic or sudden diminishment.

that dwarfs

Implies a significant difference in size or importance, making the other thing seem small.

that leaves behind

Focuses on the act of progressing past something, often in terms of development or achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "that surpasses" in a sentence?

The phrase "that surpasses" is used to describe something that exceeds or goes beyond a certain standard or limit. For example, "Her dedication is an inspiration "that surpasses" all expectations."

What are some alternatives to "that surpasses"?

You can use alternatives such as "that exceeds", "that transcends", or "that outstrips" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "that surpasses all"?

Yes, "that surpasses all" is grammatically correct and means it exceeds everything else. For instance, "His commitment to the project is "that surpasses" all previous efforts".

What's the difference between "that surpasses" and "that exceeds"?

While both indicate going beyond a certain point, ""that surpasses"" often implies a higher level of achievement or quality, whereas "that exceeds" is more general. For example, “The result "that surpasses" expectations" suggests it was unexpectedly excellent, while “The result that exceeds the limit” simply indicates it went over a defined boundary.