outsmart

Outsmart is a transitive English verb meaning to defeat or gain an advantage over someone by using greater intelligence, cleverness, or cunning. It typically describes a deliberate strategic move in competition, debate, or problem solving, and the object is usually a person or group. Example: She managed to outsmart her rival by predicting his moves. Depending on context, the term can carry a neutral tone or a slightly negative connotation implying trickery.

Originating from the prefix out- meaning to surpass, attached to smart meaning clever, outsmart is a compound formed in modern English. The sense of outsmarting someone became common in the 19th century.

Outsmart emphasizes clever planning, strategic thinking, and anticipation of others' actions rather than brute force. It appears in sports, business, politics, and everyday problem solving. Because it can imply cunning, some contexts interpret outsmart as morally neutral or morally charged depending on intent.

Related terms include outwit, outrun, outmaneuver, and outflank; while closely related, these words carry subtle nuances about wit, speed, or tactic. In usage, outsmart often parallels outwit but may imply a broader sense of strategic surpassing, whereas outmaneuver focuses more on tactical movement and positioning in a scenario.