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Transcend vs Overpower - What's the difference?

transcend | overpower |

In transitive terms the difference between transcend and overpower

is that transcend is to surpass, as in intensity or power; to excel while overpower is to render imperceptible by means of greater strength, intensity etc.

transcend

English

Verb

(en verb)
  • to pass beyond the limits of something.
  • * Francis Bacon
  • such popes as shall transcend their limits
  • to surpass, as in intensity or power; to excel.
  • * Dryden
  • How much her worth transcended all her kind.
  • (obsolete) To climb; to mount.
  • lights in the heavens transcending the region of the clouds
    (Howell)

    Derived terms

    * transcendence * transcendency * transcendent * transcendental * transcendentalism * transcendentalist * transcendentally * transcending

    overpower

    English

    Verb

    (en verb)
  • To subdue someone by superior force.
  • We overpowered the opposing army within a couple of hours.
  • To excel or exceed in power; to cause to yield; to subdue.
  • Bright light overpowers the eyes.
  • To render imperceptible by means of greater strength, intensity etc.
  • The dish was OK, but the garlic slightly overpowered the herbs.
  • *{{quote-news
  • , year=2011 , date=December 15 , author=Felicity Cloake , title=How to cook the perfect nut roast , work=Guardian citation , page= , passage=Breadcrumbs seem to be the most popular choice, but Rose Elliot's recipe, in Vegetarian Christmas (as recommended by one of the three nice people who did tweet back, India Knight), doesn't quite convince as the centrepiece of the festive feast. It consists of two layers of ground cashew nuts, mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, nutmeg and vegetable stock, and separated by a vibrant green herb stuffing, the main ingredient of which is also bread. Although surprisingly moist, thanks to the stock (indeed, the contrast between the crisp exterior and the squidgy middle is horribly moreish), the combination of parsley, garlic and breadcrumbs reminds me of a very fancy loaf of garlic bread – and all but overpowers the sweet flavour of the cashews.}}