Definition of Exceed
Quick Meaning of Exceed
To go past or beyond something. To be more or greater than a limit or what was expected.
Detailed Definition of Exceed
To go beyond or surpass a limit, boundary, or expectation; to be greater than something.
How to Pronounce Exceed
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: ik-SEED. The first syllable is quick and unstressed. The 'xc' makes a 'ks' sound.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce 'xc' as 'gz' (ig-ZEED) or stress the first syllable. Correct: ik-SEED with 'ks' sound.
Origin and Etymology of Exceed
From Latin 'excedere' (to go out, to surpass). 'Ex-' (out) + 'cedere' (to go). Entered English in 14th century with meaning 'to go beyond'.
How to Use Exceed in a Sentence
Each example shows “exceed” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The project costs exceeded our initial budget by $50,000.”
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“Her performance exceeded all expectations at the audition.”
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“Speed limits must not be exceeded under any circumstances.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Exceed
Common Synonyms for Exceed
Smart Synonyms for Exceed — When to Use Each
- surpass
- Means to be greater or better; emphasizes excellence
- overstep
- Means to go too far, especially in authority
- go beyond
- Simpler, more informal phrasing with similar meaning
Antonyms of Exceed
Common Collocations with Exceed
These phrases pair with “exceed” in everyday English:
- exceed expectations
- exceed a limit
- exceed a budget
- not exceed
- far exceed
Common Mistakes When Using Exceed
Even fluent speakers slip up with “exceed”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The temperature is exceeded 40 degrees.
- ✓ Correct: The temperature exceeds 40 degrees. / The temperature exceeded 40 degrees.
- Why: Use active voice 'exceed' not 'is exceeded'. Only use passive when necessary: 'The limit was exceeded'.
- ✗ Wrong: Our costs exceed to our budget.
- ✓ Correct: Our costs exceed our budget.
- Why: 'Exceed' takes a direct object, no preposition. Don't use 'to'.
- ✗ Wrong: He exceeding the speed limit.
- ✓ Correct: He exceeded the speed limit. / He is exceeding the speed limit.
- Why: Use past tense 'exceeded' or present continuous 'is exceeding', not 'exceeding' alone.
Words Confused With Exceed
- Exceed vs Success: Different meaning: 'success' = achieving a goal; 'exceed' = to go beyond/surpass
Other Forms of Exceed
- Noun: excess
- Verb: exceed
- Adjective: excessive
- Adverb: excessively
Frequently Asked Questions About Exceed
What is the meaning of "Exceed"?
To go past or beyond something. To be more or greater than a limit or what was expected.
How do you pronounce "Exceed"?
The IPA is /ɪkˈsiːd/. Stress the second syllable: ik-SEED. The first syllable is quick and unstressed. The 'xc' makes a 'ks' sound.
What part of speech is "Exceed"?
"Exceed" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Exceed"?
Common synonyms include surpass, outdo, go beyond.
How do you use "Exceed" in a sentence?
For example: "The project costs exceeded our initial budget by $50,000."