Irregular verbs  Regular verbs

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overtake, overtakes, overtaking, overtaken, overtook

Synonyms: surpass, pass, outdo, outstrip, leave behind

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Antonyms: fall behind, lag, follow, trail, lose to

The Verb Overtake – Definition, Usage, and Clarification


The verb overtake is an irregular verb meaning to catch up with and then pass a moving person or vehicle. Figuratively, it means to surpass a competitor or for a sudden feeling to overwhelm someone.


VERB FORMS


■ Base Form: overtake
■ Past Simple: overtook
■ Past Participle: overtaken
■ Present Participle/Gerund: overtaking


USAGE AND CONTEXT


'Overtake' is used for literal movement, figurative competition, and emotional states.


1. Passing in Motion
This is the most common meaning, especially in the context of driving.


■ Driving: 'It is dangerous to overtake on a blind corner.'
■ Racing: 'The runner overtook his rival on the final lap.'


2. Surpassing a Competitor
This is a figurative use common in business, economics, and sports.


■ Business: 'The small startup quickly grew to overtake its established competitors.'
■ Economics: 'The report predicts that their economy will overtake ours within a decade.'


3. Emotions Overwhelming a Person
This describes a sudden, powerful feeling that takes control.


■ Feelings: 'A sudden wave of exhaustion overtook him.'
■ Sleep: 'Sleep finally overtook her after the long journey.'


ℹ IMPORTANT: REGIONAL USAGE (DRIVING)


■ UK vs. US English: In British English, 'overtake' is the standard term for passing another car. In American English, 'pass' is far more common. An American would typically say, 'I'm going to pass that truck,' not 'I'm going to overtake that truck.'