What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overrepresent
Example
The study found that women were overrepresented in the nursing profession. [overrepresented: adjective]
Example
The sample size overrepresents the urban population, making it difficult to generalize the results. [overrepresents: verb]
exaggerate
Example
He tends to exaggerate his accomplishments to impress others. [exaggerate: verb]
Example
The advertisement exaggerated the benefits of the product, leading to false expectations. [exaggerated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exaggerate is a more commonly used word than overrepresent in everyday language, as it can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overrepresent and exaggerate?
Both overrepresent and exaggerate are formal words that are more likely to be used in academic or professional contexts rather than casual conversation.
