What is surpassing? Pronunciation and usage in English

surpassing means . Learn how to pronounce and use surpassing through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of surpassing

surpassingadjective

/səˈpɑːsɪŋ//sərˈpæsɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "surpassing." It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "surpassing" has three syllables:

  • sur - like the word "sure"
  • pass - like the word "pass"
  • ing - like the word "sing"

2. Phonetic Breakdown (Approximate):

Here's a rough phonetic transcription to help you hear it:

  • ˈsɜːrˌpæsɪŋ (British English)
  • ˈsʌrˌpæsɪŋ (American English)

3. Explanation & Tips:

  • "sur": This is a short, sharp "sure" sound. Don't overemphasize it.
  • "pass": This is a distinct "pass" sound, similar to the action of passing something. It's a mid-range vowel sound.
  • "ing": This is simply the "sing" sound as in the word "sing."

4. Putting it Together:

Try saying it slowly, emphasizing each syllable:

"Sur – pass – ing"

5. Listen for Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some links to hear native speakers pronounce the word:

Key Differences (British vs. American):

The main difference is in the first syllable. British English tends to have a stronger, more drawn-out "ur" sound, while American English is shorter and more like "sir."

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences to use the word in?

Usage and examples with the word surpassing in English

Let's break down how to use the word "surpassing" effectively in English. It's a powerful word that describes something that goes beyond or exceeds something else. Here's a detailed explanation with examples:

1. Core Meaning:

  • Surpassing means "exceeding" or "going beyond." It implies a level of quality, achievement, or value that is higher than what is being compared to it.
  • It often has a slightly formal and elevated tone.

2. Grammatical Usage:

  • Adjective: This is the most common usage. You use it to describe something that is surpassing.

    • Example: "Her dedication to her students was surpassing." (Meaning: Her dedication was incredibly high and went above and beyond.)
    • Example: “The new model car is surpassing all previous versions in terms of performance.”

  • Verb (Rare): It can be used as a verb, meaning "to exceed" or "to go beyond." This is less common and often sounds a bit more literary.

    • Example: “The team is surpassing expectations for this quarter.” (Meaning: The team is exceeding the expected results.) This is still acceptable, but “exceeding” is more frequently used.

3. Common Phrases & Usage Scenarios:

  • “Surpassing all expectations”: This is a very common phrase used to describe something that performed better than anticipated.

    • Example: “The company’s profits were surpassing all expectations.”

  • “Surpassing achievements”: Used to describe remarkable accomplishments.

    • Example: “The athletes’ performance was surpassing achievements in the history of the games.”

  • “Surpassing qualities”: Describes characteristics that are remarkably good or impressive.

    • Example: “She possesses surpassing qualities of kindness and intelligence.”

  • “A surpassing beauty”: Used to describe exceptional attractiveness.

    • Example: “The sunset over the ocean was a surpassing beauty.”

  • “Surpassing challenges”: Talking about overcoming something difficult.

    • Example: “The team is surpassing challenges through teamwork and perseverance.”

4. Comparison is Key:

“Surpassing” always relies on a comparison. It’s about something better than something else. Without a comparison, it loses its meaning.

  • Incorrect: “The food was surpassing.” (This doesn’t make sense without something to compare it to.)
  • Correct: "The food was surpassing the previous meal we had." (Now it implies it was better.)

5. Synonyms:

  • Exceptional
  • Outstanding
  • Remarkable
  • Superior
  • Above average
  • Exceeding

Tips for Using "Surpassing" Effectively:

  • Consider your audience: “Surpassing” is more formal. Use it in situations where a slightly elevated tone is appropriate.
  • Be specific: Don’t just say something is “surpassing.” Explain what is surpassing and how it's surpassing. Provide details.
  • Read it aloud: Does it sound natural? If not, try a synonym.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you doing? (e.g., essay, email, creative writing, etc.)
  • What are you trying to describe? (Give me a general idea of the topic.)

Synonyms for the word surpassing

Practice with vocabulary surpassing

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company's innovative design was deemed _______ by industry experts, setting a new benchmark for efficiency.
  2. Her commitment to ethical journalism is _______, making her a trusted voice in an often-skeptical media landscape.
  3. Despite the tight deadline, the team delivered an _______ report, rich in detail and insightful analysis.
  4. To ensure data security, all employees must adhere _______ to the strict privacy protocols outlined in the company policy.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The new software update offers several features that are _______ previous versions, significantly boosting productivity. a) inferior to b) on par with c) surpassing d) beneath e) superior to

  2. Dr. Ramirez's groundbreaking research on sustainable energy sources is considered _______ in the scientific community. a) pioneering b) insignificant c) trivial d) surpassing e) innovative

  3. Despite the project's ambitious goals, the team managed to deliver results _______ expectations, securing a second round of investment. a) falling short of b) surpassing c) below d) exceeding e) meeting

  4. The manager requested a _______ review of the financial records before the audit. a) superficial b) thorough c) cursory d) comprehensive e) brief

  5. Companies must _______ to environmental regulations to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage. a) adhere b) disregard c) comply with d) violate e) contravene

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The team's achievements in product innovation were far superior to anything seen before in the industry. Rewrite using "surpassing" or a related word form:

  2. Original: Her ability to analyze complex data sets is much better than that of her peers, making her an invaluable asset. Rewrite using "surpassing" or a related word form:

  3. Original: The manager encouraged open dialogue and participation from all team members during the brainstorming session. Rewrite WITHOUT "surpassing" or any of its word forms:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. surpassing
  2. surpassing
  3. exceptional
  4. strictly

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) surpassing, e) superior to
  2. a) pioneering, d) surpassing, e) innovative
  3. b) surpassing, d) exceeding
  4. b) thorough, d) comprehensive
  5. a) adhere, c) comply with

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team's achievements in product innovation surpassed anything seen before in the industry.
  2. Her ability to analyze complex data sets surpasses that of her peers, making her an invaluable asset.
  3. The manager fostered open dialogue and participation from all team members during the brainstorming session.

Comment ()