as in to minimize
to say that (something) is smaller, less important, etc., than it really is
He understated his taxable income. She's trying to understate the issue/problem.
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Recent Examples of understate
But, and this can't be understated, putting up efficient numbers that lead to wins in the short term is the best way to ensure there is a long-term.
—
Nick Suss, Nashville Tennessean, 18 Sep. 2025
Amszke Vegan Leather Saddle Bag Structured and understated, this vegan leather saddle bag channels the equestrian roots of classic prep style.
—Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2025
Bürstner gives the Signature a unique combination of bright, vibrant exterior and understated interior motifs, and buyers can dial in their exact look via the lengthy options sheet.
—New Atlas, 15 Sep. 2025
Keep It Simple Keep your fall front entry simple and understated with a couple of small seasonal touches that add a big impact.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
Nick Suss, Nashville Tennessean, 18 Sep. 2025
Amszke Vegan Leather Saddle Bag Structured and understated, this vegan leather saddle bag channels the equestrian roots of classic prep style.
—Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2025
Bürstner gives the Signature a unique combination of bright, vibrant exterior and understated interior motifs, and buyers can dial in their exact look via the lengthy options sheet.
—New Atlas, 15 Sep. 2025
Keep It Simple Keep your fall front entry simple and understated with a couple of small seasonal touches that add a big impact.
—Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for understate
Verb
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Once stationary, deactivate all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights remain unlit, minimizing the chance of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
23 Sep. 2025
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Jones got acclimated to the Panthers’ system through his live reps and tried to minimize the growing pains as quickly as possible.—
Jordan McPherson,
Miami Herald,
23 Sep. 2025
Verb
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China rejects this view and has blasted Taipei for underplaying the role of Chinese Communists in defeating Imperial Japan.—
Jan Camenzind Broomby,
NPR,
2 Sep. 2025
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Bader gives a sharp, subtle performance, underplaying in scenes where even an experienced actor might chomp down.—
Stephanie Zacharek,
Time,
1 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Once the contestants are dismissed from the runway, the judges get more into it.—
Roxana Hadadi,
Vulture,
26 Sep. 2025
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Defense attorneys for the man accused of killing his Miami Hurricanes football star teammate in 2006 want prosecutors sanctioned — or the murder case dismissed — after a key witness, who state prosecutors believed was dead, was found alive by an ESPN reporter.—
Grethel Aguila,
Miami Herald,
25 Sep. 2025
Verb
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That’s been the company line this week, Kelce following Reid, offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones in downplaying the incident as a sign of a player’s passion and a coach’s competitive spirt.—
Kansas City Star,
Kansas City Star,
26 Sep. 2025
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Vrabel downplayed the severity of the injury.—
Doug Kyed,
Boston Herald,
26 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/understate. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.
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