underestimate
1 antonyms and opposites of underestimate, grouped by meaning.
Verb — To judge something to be smaller, less important, or less difficult than it actually is.
Antonyms
Etymology
From under- + estimate.
Full origin of underestimate →Frequently asked questions
What does “underestimate” mean?
The word “underestimate” means to judge something to be smaller, less important, or less difficult than it actually is. In plain terms, to think something is smaller, weaker, or easier than it really is.
How do you pronounce “underestimate”?
“Underestimate” is pronounced uhnd-EHS-tih-mayt (/ʌndɚˈɛs.tɪ.meɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “underestimate” in a sentence?
Here is “underestimate” used in a sentence: “Don't underestimate how much time this project will take.”
What is another word for “underestimate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “underestimate” include misunderestimate, sell short, underapproximate, underguess, underrate and underjudge.
What is the opposite of “underestimate”?
The opposite of “underestimate” — its antonyms — is overestimate.
What part of speech is “underestimate”?
Depending on how it is used, “underestimate” can be a verb and a noun.
Is “underestimate” a common word?
“Underestimate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “underestimate” have?
“Underestimate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to judge something to be smaller, less important, or less difficult than it actually is.
What is the difference between "underestimate" and "undervalue"?
"Underestimate" means to judge something to be smaller, less important, or less difficult than it actually is, often about scale, difficulty, or ability. "Undervalue" focuses more specifically on worth, especially financial or personal value, rather than difficulty or magnitude.
What is the difference between "underestimate" and "underrate" (an existing synonym)?
Both words describe judging something as less significant or capable than it truly is, and they are largely interchangeable, though "underrate" leans slightly more toward judging quality or ability, while "underestimate" is also commonly used for quantities and difficulty.
Can "underestimate" be used as a noun?
Yes, as a noun, "underestimate" refers to an estimate that turns out to be too low, distinct from its more common use as a verb meaning to judge something as smaller or less significant than it actually is.