noun
Uncommon
understatement
uhn-duh-STAYT-muhnt
Understatement (noun) means a statement that presents something as smaller, milder, or less significant than it really is, sometimes for ironic effect. Example: “Saying the hurricane caused "some damage" was quite an understatement.”
noun
1
A statement that presents something as smaller, milder, or less significant than it really is, sometimes for ironic effect.
"Saying the hurricane caused "some damage" was quite an understatement."
"Calling him talented is an understatement — he's a genius."
How to use understatement
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribing something as less impressive or serious than it actually is.
Common mistake
Often used sarcastically, as in "that's an understatement," to emphasize that something is actually much bigger or worse.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- understatements
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Saying the hurricane caused "some damage" was quite an _____.
Etymology
From under- plus statement, or alternatively from understate plus -ment.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for understatement
cement
element
clement
movement
pavement
tenement
inclement
abatement
amusement
statement
agreement
excrement
See all rhymes for understatement →
Frequently asked questions
What does “understatement” mean?
The word “understatement” means a statement that presents something as smaller, milder, or less significant than it really is, sometimes for ironic effect. In plain terms, describing something as less impressive or serious than it actually is.
How do you pronounce “understatement”?
“Understatement” is pronounced uhn-duh-STAYT-muhnt (/ˌʌndɚˈsteɪtmənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “understatement” in a sentence?
Here is “understatement” used in a sentence: “Saying the hurricane caused "some damage" was quite an understatement.”
What part of speech is “understatement”?
“Understatement” is a noun.
Is “understatement” a common word?
“Understatement” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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