understatement

[ˌʌndərˈsteɪtmənt]

understatement Definition

  • 1the act of describing something in a way that makes it seem less important, serious, or extreme than it really is
  • 2a statement that describes something in this way

Using understatement: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "understatement" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    To say that he was disappointed is an understatement.

  • Example

    The damage to the car was an understatement of the severity of the accident.

  • Example

    Her achievements are nothing short of remarkable, and that's no understatement.

understatement Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for understatement

Phrases with understatement

  • an expression used to describe a statement that is an obvious or significant understatement

    Example

    To say that she is talented is an understatement of the year.

  • to describe something as being less important, serious, or extreme than it really is

    Example

    To say that the situation is challenging would be making an understatement.

  • a person who is known for making statements that significantly understate the true nature of things

    Example

    When asked about his success, he replied with his characteristic understatement: 'I just got lucky.' He is truly a master of understatement.

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Summary: understatement in Brief

The term 'understatement' [ˌʌndərˈsteɪtmənt] refers to the act of describing something in a way that makes it seem less important, serious, or extreme than it really is. It can also refer to a statement that describes something in this way. Examples include 'To say that he was disappointed is an understatement,' and 'The damage to the car was an understatement of the severity of the accident.' The phrase 'an understatement of the year' is used to describe an obvious or significant understatement.