overrule

Everyday

1. To overrule someone is to change their decision because you have more power or authority. tree →
2. (law) A judge overrules an objection when he or she decides it is not valid. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life a parent, head teacher or referee can overrule another decision. In courts: «Objection overruled» means the judge rejected the objection; «sustained» means the judge agreed. In stories it shows who is in charge.

Examples

• Mum overruled Dad and said we could stay up. tree →
• The head teacher overruled the class vote. tree →
• «Objection overruled,» said the judge. tree →
• The referee overruled the linesman. tree →
• The captain can overrule the crew. tree →
• Our decision was overruled by the council. tree →
• My big sister tried to overrule me, but it was my turn. tree →
• The higher court overruled the first decision. tree →
• She entreated the King to allow the Prince to visit her, and after some hesitation which was overruled by his wife, he finally consented. tree →

Note

Regular verb: overruled. Opposite in court: sustain. Not the same as «override», though close: override is also used about machines and settings.