What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
misestimate
Example
I misestimated the amount of time it would take me to finish the project. [misestimated: past tense]
Example
The company's misestimation of the market demand led to a loss in profits. [misestimation: noun]
underestimate
Example
I underestimated the difficulty of the exam and didn't study enough. [underestimated: past tense]
Example
Don't underestimate the importance of good communication skills in the workplace. [underestimate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Underestimate is more commonly used than misestimate in everyday language. Underestimate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while misestimate is less common and may be considered more technical or formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between misestimate and underestimate?
Misestimate may be considered more technical or formal than underestimate, which is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.