Synonyms of underestimate

underestimate

verb

ˌən-dər-ˈe-stə-ˌmāt 

as in to minimize

to place too low a value on

we had underestimated her ability to raise the start-up money for her own design firm

Synonyms & Similar Words

• minimize
• underrate
• undervalue
• sell short
• despise
• disdain
• disparage
• belittle
• soft-pedal
• de-emphasize
• play down
• depreciate
• decry
• scorn

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• overestimate
• appreciate
• treasure
• value
• prize
• cherish
• respect
• overrate
• admire
• regard
• overvalue
• esteem
• revere
• adore
• worship
• reverence
• venerate
• idolize

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of underestimate

Retailers may underestimate the risk of QR code and link substitution across payments, promotions, returns and product information. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

The pros and cons of longevity calculators For older Americans who might be underestimating their longevity, a life expectancy calculator can provide an instructive lesson. — Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 8 Aug. 2026

Some argue that people chronically underestimate the scale of inequality – in the 2014 study, Americans underestimated the actual pay ratio at the time as being only 30-to-1. — Jen Cole Wright, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026

However, Kim said the government likely underestimated the risk appetite of the nation’s retail investors. — Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026