verb
understate
Understate (verb) means to describe something as smaller or less important than it really is.
verb
1
To describe something as smaller or less important than it really is.
"To call this decision a calculated bet understates the risk; it is a Hail Mary pass."
2
To describe something in a deliberately flat way for ironic effect.
"She is the queen of understatement: she understated her critique masterfully."
3
To give a number or amount that is lower than the true figure.
"The company had been understating its liabilities for years."
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Rhymes for understate
See all rhymes for understate →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of understate?
"understate" (verb) means to describe something as smaller or less important than it really is.
What is another word for understate?
Other words for "understate" include downplay, minimise, minimize.
What is the opposite of understate?
The opposite of "understate" is overstate.
What are the different meanings of understate?
"understate" has 3 main meanings: 1. To describe something as smaller or less important than it really is; 2. To describe something in a deliberately flat way for ironic effect; 3. To give a number or amount that is lower than the true figure.
