Beyond

Definition

Beyond is used as a preposition, adverb, and noun. As a preposition, it indicates something farther than a particular point or outside the limits of a certain range. As an adverb, it means at a greater distance. As a noun, it is often used to refer to something that lies outside the physical or conceptual limits of something else, like "the beyond" in metaphysical contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Preposition
• Adverb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /biˈɑnd/
• Respelling: bee-AHND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈjɒnd/
• Respelling: bih-YOND

Etymology

The word "beyond" originates from Old English "begeondan," where "be-" means "by" and "geond" means "yonder." The term has been in use since the early 12th century, conveying the sense of something existing outside or farther than a particular point.

Derivatives

• Beyondness (noun)
• Beyond compare (phrase)
• Beyond belief (phrase)
• Go beyond (verb phrase)
• Beyond the pale (phrase)

Synonyms

• Past
• Outside
• Further

Antonyms

• Within
• Inside
• Here

Usage

The term "beyond" is often used to express concepts of distance, extent, or scope that lie outside a known range or limit. For example, "The town lies just beyond the hills," or "His achievements go beyond expectations."

Related Terms

• Outside: Situated on the exterior or outside of something.
• Farther: At a greater distance.
• Over: Extending directly upward or across.

Detailed Definitions

Preposition

• At or to the far side of: Refers to something located farther than a particular reference point.
  • Example: "The mountains are just beyond the lake."
• Outside the limits of: Indicates a scope or boundary that something surpasses.
  • Example: "Her skills go beyond what is required for the job."

Adverb

• At a greater distance: Refers to a point that is farther away.
  • Example: "The road continues beyond the bridge."

Noun

• That which lies outside or after: Used to describe something outside physical or conceptual boundaries, often referring to metaphysical or unknown realms.
  • Example: "The mysteries of the great beyond intrigued the explorers."