Definition

To outsmart someone by being more clever or cunning than they are.

Example

She managed to outfox her competitors by coming up with a unique marketing strategy.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he managed to outfox the competition at the event?

Yeah, I was really impressed with his strategy!

It’s like he always knows how to stay one step ahead.

Exactly, it's a real talent to outfox others like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Outfox → The word is formed from "out-" (meaning beyond or outside) and "fox" (from Old English "fox", meaning the animal known for its cunning). The term "outfox" means to outsmart or outwit someone, as a fox is often associated with cleverness.

Memory Tip

Think of going 'beyond' ('out-') the cleverness of a 'fox' — that's how you remember that 'outfox' means to outsmart someone.

Visually Confused Words