Surpass vs You're faster than this

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Surpass

Top 2,000 (common)B1verb

You're faster than this

Top 2,000 (common)
 SurpassYou're faster than this
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //səˈpɑːs//🇺🇸 //sərˈpæs//🇬🇧 //jɔːr ˈfɑːstər ðən ðɪs//🇺🇸 //jʊr ˈfæstər ðən ðɪs//
MeaningTo do better than someone or something.You are quicker than this.
ExampleShe hopes to surpass her previous record in the marathon.You're faster than this when you really focus!
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR levelB1-
Part of speechverb
Collocationssurpass expectations, surpass limits, surpass achievementsfaster pace, faster response, faster time
Antonymsfail, fall behind, lag-
Common mistakesConfuse with 'exceed'; 'surpass' emphasizes doing better, while 'exceed' means to go beyond limits., Incorrectly use intransitively; 'surpass' should always take an object., Use with wrong tense; ensure subject and verb are properly agreed.Omitting 'than' in comparisons., Using 'this' to refer to something not immediately present., Confusing 'faster' with 'more fast'.
Usage notesUse 'surpass' when comparing achievements or qualities. It's more formal than 'beat'. Avoid in casual conversation.This phrase is often used to encourage someone to be quicker. Informal contexts may include sports or casual conversation.

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You're faster than this

Frequently asked questions: Surpass vs You're faster than this

What's the difference between Surpass and You're faster than this?

Surpass: To do better than someone or something. You're faster than this: You are quicker than this.

Can you show an example of each?

Surpass: She hopes to surpass her previous record in the marathon. You're faster than this: You're faster than this when you really focus!

Can I use Surpass and You're faster than this interchangeably?

Not always. Surpass and You're faster than this are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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