understate
verb
un·der·state
ˌən-dər-ˈstāt 
understated; understating; understates
1
: to represent as less than is the case
understate taxable income
2
: to state or present with restraint especially for effect
Examples of understate in a Sentence
He understated his taxable income.
She's trying to understate the issue.
Recent Examples on the Web
Her interpersonal style, though, was notably understated.
—
Casey Cep, The New Yorker, 29 Apr. 2024
The pipes analogy actually understates Change’s scope and complexity.
—Erika Fry, Fortune, 23 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for understate 
Casey Cep, The New Yorker, 29 Apr. 2024
The pipes analogy actually understates Change’s scope and complexity.
—Erika Fry, Fortune, 23 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for understate
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'understate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near understate
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 3 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
understate
verb
un·der·state
ˌən-dər-ˈstāt
1
: to represent as less than is the case
understate taxable income
2
: to state mildly especially on purpose
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