The word "outweigh" is spelled with the letters -ou- to represent the sound /aʊ/, as in "loud" or "cow". This is followed by -tweigh, which represents a long /eɪ/ sound, as in "play" or "say". The word means to be more important or significant than something else. It is commonly used in phrases such as "the benefits outweigh the costs" or "the positives outweigh the negatives." Proper spelling of this word is important in clear written communication.
The term "outweigh" is a verb that refers to a comparison between two things, particularly when determining which one has a greater or more significant impact, importance, or influence. The action of outweighing involves evaluating the strengths, advantages, or disadvantages of each thing and concluding that one has more value or importance than the other.
To "outweigh" can also mean that the positive aspects or benefits of something surpass or exceed its negative aspects or drawbacks. In this sense, the positive elements of a situation or decision are considered to be greater or more valuable than the negative factors.
The concept of "outweigh" can be applied in various contexts. For example, in a debate, the arguments or evidence presented by one side may be deemed to outweigh those of the opposing side, meaning they are more persuasive or carry more weight. In financial terms, the profits or gains of a business can outweigh its expenses or losses. Similarly, when making personal choices or decisions, individuals often consider whether the advantages of a certain option outweigh its disadvantages.
Overall, "outweigh" describes a situation in which one thing is considered to have a greater impact, importance, or value than another, taking into account various factors and comparisons.
To exceed in weight, effect, or importance.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word outweigh originated from Middle English, derived from the combination of the words out and weigh.
The word weigh comes from Old English wegan which means to carry, bear, or move something heavy. It is also related to the Old Norse word vega and the Gothic word weis which both have the same meaning.
The prefix out is used in the sense of to surpass or exceed in this context. When combined with weigh, the word outweigh was formed, with the overall meaning of to surpass in weight, importance, or value.