beaten
word · lemma: beat
Definition
'Beaten' is the past participle of 'beat'. It can mean hit many times, defeated in a game or competition, or used so often that it seems old and unoriginal, as in a 'beaten path' or a 'beaten excuse'.
Usage & Nuances
Often appears after 'have' ('has beaten', 'was beaten') or as an adjective ('a beaten team'). Common patterns: 'be beaten by', 'be badly beaten', 'off the beaten path'. Don't confuse the physical meaning with the figurative one. 'Beat' also has an irregular past form: 'beat' / 'beaten'.
Example Sentences
The boy was beaten in the race by his friend.
basic
The old dog looked tired and beaten.
basic
We stayed on the beaten path in the forest.
basic
Our team got beaten pretty badly last night.
natural
I'm tired of hearing that same beaten excuse every time.
natural
We wanted a quiet trip, so we went off the beaten path.
natural