The verb overcome describes successfully dealing with or controlling a problem, obstacle, or opponent. It implies triumphing over difficulty through effort, strength, or determination.
Common alternatives expressing a similar meaning include:
These words may vary slightly in tone and usage — for example, conquer often applies to large or challenging struggles, while master suggests skillful control through learning or discipline.
“He finally overcame his fear of speaking in public.”
Words expressing the opposite sense include:
“Despite many setbacks, they refused to yield.”
The word overcome conveys strength, endurance, and triumph over difficulty, with synonyms ranging from conquer to master, depending on tone and context.