understate
Meaning(s)
1. to describe something as less than it really is
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
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 contribution to 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.