How to Memorize

overstate the significance of something

Analysis

If you overstate something it means to exaggerate or explain something in a way that makes it seem more important or serious than it really is. "I have overstated my position due to my passion for the subject." "These health and safety recommendations are really overstated." This is a formal expression used more in professional contexts.

Social Examples (Advance)

1. She vastly overstated the significance of her contribution to the success of the project. Her impact was minimal at best.
2. Mark has a tendency to overstate his computer skills in order to impress people.
3. The importance of the new discovery cannot be overstated. It is truly groundbreaking.

Professional Examples (Advance)

1. It is better to be honest if you haven’t had experience using a particular software program before rather than overstating your skills.
2. I find a lot of safeguarding procedures to be extremely overstated but I appreciate why they are needed in the workplace.

Further Suggestions