Expressions used in Everyday Spoken English in Social and Professional contexts
understate
understate
Meaning(s)
1) to describe something as less than it really is
How to MemorizePopularity MediumProfessional MediumSocial
understate a problem/contribution/situation
Analysis
When you 'understate' something you describe it as being less good or less important than it really is. Similar in meaning to 'play down' or 'downplay'. This is a verb that can be used in social and professional contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
The modest policewoman understated her contributionto the investigation.
Governments often understate how many citizens are affected by an issue.
When you understate the situation, people might not work so hard to deal with it.
Professional Examples (Basic)
When you understate the situation, people might not work so hard to deal with it.
He understated the impact of the accident and we didn't take appropriate steps to prevent further damage.