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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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of understate
Food and drink Dining here is elegant and understated.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Jan. 2026
Still, the interview process can’t be understated.
—Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 26 Jan. 2026
And the importance of having Boldy back, healthy and contributing, can hardly be understated.
—Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 25 Jan. 2026
The minimally contrasting color design easily fits a variety of aesthetics if your vibe is elegant and understated.
—Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Jan. 2026
Still, the interview process can’t be understated.
—Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 26 Jan. 2026
And the importance of having Boldy back, healthy and contributing, can hardly be understated.
—Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 25 Jan. 2026
The minimally contrasting color design easily fits a variety of aesthetics if your vibe is elegant and understated.
—Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for understate
Verb
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Cruz and other Republicans argued the decision minimized the gravity of an attack on the judiciary and could encourage future political violence.—
Kaelan Deese,
The Washington Examiner,
8 Jan. 2026
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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,
7 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Japan’s Moment To Continue A moment is probably underplaying it a little.—
Jesse Whittock,
Deadline,
30 Dec. 2025
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Snow accumulation expected through Monday evening KDKA Weather Center Working these types of systems before, model data normally underplays the strength of the warm air and pushes this rain-snow line too far south.—
Ron Smiley,
CBS News,
29 Nov. 2025
Verb
-
However, a White House official dismissed speculation.—
Jeff Cox,
CNBC,
30 Jan. 2026
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Continue reading … LEGAL LOOPHOLE – Luigi Mangione returns to court as judge weighs defense motion to dismiss death penalty charge.—
,
FOXNews.com,
30 Jan. 2026
Verb
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In accordance with his own briefing, Touhami chose not to downplay the scale of his project.—
Asad Syrkett,
Architectural Digest,
24 Jan. 2026
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Anxiety, insomnia, and weight gain struck seemingly out of nowhere, but her doctors downplayed her concerns, leaving her isolated, even questioning her sanity.—
Erica Sloan,
SELF,
23 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/understate. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.
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