exceed
/ɪkˈsiːd/- 1.
To go past a fixed limit, number, or level. This limit can be a rule, a measurement, or a set amount.
- The driver was fined for exceeding the speed limit.
- Please do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Total costs must not exceed the approved budget.
- 2.
To be greater or better than something expected, or to do more than what is required.
- The film's box office results exceeded all expectations.
- Her performance exceeded what the judges had hoped for.
Adinary Nuance
Exceed, surpass, outdo, and outstrip all mean to go beyond something, but each fits a different situation. "Exceed" is the most neutral and precise — it works best with measurable things like limits, numbers, quotas, or targets (e.g., "exceed the budget," "exceed a score"). "Surpass" carries a more positive, achievement-focused tone and is more natural when comparing people's abilities or results ("she surpassed all her rivals"). "Outdo" is more competitive and informal, implying someone tries harder than another person. "Transcend" is the most elevated — it suggests going so far beyond something that it becomes a different category entirely, and sounds out of place in business or academic writing where "exceed" belongs.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Vượt quá
- Spanish
- Exceder
- Chinese
- 超过
- Japanese
- 超える
- Korean
- 초과하다
Etymology
From Latin "excedere," combining "ex-" (out) and "cedere" (to go), literally meaning "to go beyond." The word entered English in the late 14th century via Old French "exceder."
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between 'exceed' and 'surpass'?
- 'Exceed' is best with measurable limits or numbers, such as a budget or a score. 'Surpass' sounds more natural when you are comparing achievements or abilities between people, and it carries a slightly more positive, impressive tone.
- Is 'exceed' formal or informal?
- 'Exceed' sits firmly in the formal register. It is very common in academic writing, business reports, and legal documents. In casual conversation, people are more likely to say 'go over' or 'go past' instead.
- Can 'exceed' be used with people, or only with numbers and limits?
- It can be used with people, but it sounds more natural with measurable things. Saying 'she exceeded her competitors' is grammatically fine but 'she surpassed her competitors' sounds more idiomatic. With numbers and limits, 'exceed' is always the best choice.
- Is 'exceed' useful for IELTS writing?
- Yes — it is a high-frequency academic word and appears regularly in IELTS reading and writing tasks. Using it correctly with quantifiable contexts (growth rates, limits, targets) shows examiners a strong command of formal vocabulary.