underestimate

[ˌʌndərˈɛstɪmeɪt]

underestimate Definition

• 1. to think that someone or something is less strong, good, effective etc than they really are
• 2. to 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

Synonyms for underestimate

• underrate
• belittle
• minimize

Antonyms for underestimate

• overestimate
• exaggerate
• overrate

Phrases with underestimate

• underestimate oneself

  to think that one is less capable or less important than one really is

  Example

  She tends to underestimate herself and her achievements.

• underestimate the enemy

  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.

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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.