underestimate Definition
- 1to think that someone or something is less strong, good, effective etc than they really are
- 2to make a mistake in judging a situation or in guessing what will happen
Using underestimate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "underestimate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I underestimated how difficult the task would be.
Example
Don't underestimate the importance of a good education.
Example
We should not underestimate the power of nature.
Example
He has a tendency to underestimate his own abilities.
underestimate Synonyms and Antonyms
Antonyms for underestimate
- overestimate
- exaggerate
- overrate
Phrases with underestimate
to think that one is less capable or less important than one really is
Example
She tends to underestimate herself and her achievements.
to think that the enemy is less powerful or dangerous than they really are
Example
The general warned his troops not to underestimate the enemy.
underestimate the value of something
to think that something is less valuable or important than it really is
Example
Don't underestimate the value of a good education.
Summary: underestimate in Brief
To 'underestimate' [ˌʌndərˈɛstɪmeɪt] means to misjudge someone or something as weaker or less effective than they actually are. It can also refer to making a mistake in predicting an outcome. Examples include 'I underestimated how difficult the task would be,' and 'He has a tendency to underestimate his own abilities.' The phrase 'underestimate oneself' refers to thinking one is less capable than they really are.