Overtook Meaning in English
word · lemma: overtake
Definition
'Overtook' is the past tense of 'overtake.' It means to move ahead of someone or something that was in front of you, usually by going faster. It can also mean becoming greater in number, amount, or importance than someone or something else.
Usage & Nuances
'Overtook' is formal or neutral, mainly used for passing vehicles ('He overtook the truck'), but also for exceeding in non-physical ways ('China overtook the US in exports'). Not used for regular passing by ('walked past'). Do not confuse with 'overlook' or 'take over'.
Example Sentences
She overtook the car in front of her on the highway.
basic
The runner quickly overtook his competitors.
basic
Last year, our sales overtook theirs.
basic
By the time I noticed, the storm had overtaken the boat.
natural
Technology quickly overtook old-fashioned ways of communication.
natural
Fear suddenly overtook him before he entered the stage.
natural