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

If these numbers are accurate — and the polls wildly overstated el Sayed’s margin in the Democratic primary — Stevens would need to trigger an avalanche of vote-switching in addition to late deciders overwhelmingly breaking for Rogers. — W. James Antle Iii, The Washington Examiner, 2 Nov. 2026

And do not overstate Friday night’s victory over Indiana, with the Pacers missing six rotation components. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026

He was accused of vastly overstating the number of meals when seeking payment for providing food. — ABC News, 28 Oct. 2026

His impact on this organization, our industry, and on me personally is difficult to overstate. — Matthew Ablon, CBS News, 28 Oct. 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