What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
underestimate
Example
I think you are underestimating how hard this project will be. [underestimating: present participle]
Example
She always underestimates her own abilities, but she is actually very talented. [underestimates: verb]
belittle
Example
He always tries to belittle his coworkers to make himself look better. [belittle: verb]
Example
She felt belittled by her boss's comments about her work. [belittled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Underestimate is more commonly used than belittle in professional or academic contexts, while belittle is more commonly used in personal or social contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between underestimate and belittle?
Underestimate is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts. Belittle, on the other hand, is typically associated with a negative and informal tone and is less commonly used in formal contexts.
