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
The service As the hospitality definition of quiet luxury, Aman’s service is exacting yet understated, respectful and personalized.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026
Yes, Reid is understating his profound influence over it all, whether that’s directly through frequent conversations with Veach or via what’s simply understood between them by now.
—Kansas City Star, 22 Apr. 2026
Envisioned by three of Mexico’s most renowned contemporary architects, Victor Legorreta, Mauricio Rocha and Mario Schjetnan — in collaboration with Uribe Krayer and Estudio Esterlina for interior design — each understated, contemporary residence will offer soothing ocean views.
—Carole Dixon, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026
The production’s video elements — a blend of traditional live footage, wide-angle and close-up shots, and music-video highlights — were understated.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 19 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
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Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026
Yes, Reid is understating his profound influence over it all, whether that’s directly through frequent conversations with Veach or via what’s simply understood between them by now.
—Kansas City Star, 22 Apr. 2026
Envisioned by three of Mexico’s most renowned contemporary architects, Victor Legorreta, Mauricio Rocha and Mario Schjetnan — in collaboration with Uribe Krayer and Estudio Esterlina for interior design — each understated, contemporary residence will offer soothing ocean views.
—Carole Dixon, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026
The production’s video elements — a blend of traditional live footage, wide-angle and close-up shots, and music-video highlights — were understated.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 19 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understate. Accessed 24 Apr. 2026.
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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