godan verb (-gu), transitive verb
endure; keep out; stave off
Used for withstanding harsh conditions, weather, hunger, or attacks. Often implies actively holding something unpleasant at bay.
一枚の毛布で寒さを凌いだ。
I endured the cold with a single blanket.
軒下で雨を凌ぐ。
I keep out of the rain under the eaves.
godan verb (-gu), transitive verb
pull through; get over; survive
Focuses on surviving a difficult period or crisis, such as illness, financial trouble, or a tough situation.
家族の助けでその冬を凌いだ。
With my family's help, I got through that winter.
蓄えで不況を凌ぐ。
We survive the recession with our savings.
godan verb (-gu), transitive verb
surpass; outdo; excel; eclipse; defy
Used when someone or something exceeds another in ability, quality, or intensity. Can carry a nuance of defying expectations or overshadowing.
彼は先輩を凌ぐ実力を持っている。
He has ability that surpasses his seniors.
新記録は従来の記録を大きく凌いだ。
The new record far eclipsed the previous one.