as in to exaggerate
to describe or express in too strong terms
it appears you've somewhat overstated your computer skills, if you can't find the "on" button!
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Recent Examples of overstate
An earlier version of this story overstated Medicaid coverage for pregnant women who don't have legal status.
—
Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR, 31 Mar. 2026
The need is difficult to overstate.
—Thomas White, Kansas City Star, 31 Mar. 2026
Some medical experts, however, say Kennedy on occasion overstates the role that food can play in preventing and managing illnesses.
—Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 30 Mar. 2026
Another analysis, from a team at the right-leaning Hoover Institute, argues the tax’s backers overstate which billionaires are still California residents and how much of their holdings are actually subject to the tax.
—Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 25 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for overstate
Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR, 31 Mar. 2026
The need is difficult to overstate.
—Thomas White, Kansas City Star, 31 Mar. 2026
Some medical experts, however, say Kennedy on occasion overstates the role that food can play in preventing and managing illnesses.
—Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 30 Mar. 2026
Another analysis, from a team at the right-leaning Hoover Institute, argues the tax’s backers overstate which billionaires are still California residents and how much of their holdings are actually subject to the tax.
—Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 25 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for overstate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overstate
exaggerate
Verb
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Slightly shimmering effects reflect light in a subtle way, bringing luminosity without being exaggerated; it can be glazed donut–style chrome, or for a more intense effect try a cat-eye finish.—
Andrea Carbajal,
Glamour,
31 Mar. 2026
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Bosco’s attorneys argue Shaw was exaggerating the situation.—
Paul Flahive,
Austin American Statesman,
27 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Overstate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overstate. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.
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