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understate
[ uhn-der-steyt ]
verb (used with object)
- to state or represent less strongly or strikingly than the facts would bear out; set forth in restrained, moderate, or weak terms:
The casualty lists understate the extent of the disaster.
understate
/ ˌʌԻəˈٱɪ /
verb
- to state (something) in restrained terms, often to obtain an ironic effect
- to state that (something, such as a number) is less than it is
Other Word Forms
- ܲ··ٲٱ·Գ [uhn-der-, steyt, -m, uh, nt, uhn, -der-steyt-], noun
Word History and Origins
Origin of understate1
Example Sentences
The Al Pacino I saw in “The Godfather” was so understated, he didn’t have to do much.
A nicely understated anxiety in Edgar-Jones’ portrayal conveys her new life in suburban San Diego.
It was refreshing to get a somewhat understated conclusion to this intense, 15-hour ride.
But just when the film’s missteps start to frustrate, the story lands on a stunningly understated moment that suggests the potentially rich character study underneath.
Subtract, released in May 2023, presented a more understated, introspective side to the star's bubbly pop persona - with production from The National's Aaron Dessner.
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