overstate

verb

over·​state ˌō-vər-ˈstāt 

overstated; overstating; overstates

transitive verb

: to state in too strong terms : exaggerate

overstated his qualifications

overstatement

ˌō-vər-ˈstāt-mənt 

noun

Synonyms of overstate

• exaggerate

Examples of overstate in a Sentence

It would be overstating the case to say that it was a matter of life or death.

it appears you've somewhat overstated your computer skills, if you can't find the “on” button!

Recent Examples on the Web

The satellite-to-phone provider AST SpaceMobile is facing a class action lawsuit from an investor, who claims the company overstated its ability to compete with SpaceX’s Starlink Mobile. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2026

Although drawing a straight line from the uprising to election results would overstate the evidence, in 2017, Vi Lyles became Charlotte’s first Black woman mayor and voters elected five new City Council members — all younger than 40. — Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 17 Sep. 2026

There is no reason to overstate the significance of the ratings decline. — Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 14 Sep. 2026

Someone might overstate their income and still make every payment. — Mike De Vere, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for overstate

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate
• angulate

Kids Definition

overstate

verb

over·​state -ˈstāt 

: to state in too strong terms : exaggerate

overstatement

-mənt 

noun