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
For a low-key, B&B-style stay, Le Secret has five bright guest rooms—understated with a mix of vintage decor—overlooking a lush garden with a sleek swimming pool, olive trees, Japanese maples, and figs.
—
Caitlin Gunther,
Condé Nast Traveler,
19 June 2026
It cannot be understated how perfect the first 45 minutes were, in particular.
—
Dean Jones,
New York Times,
18 June 2026
While its exterior is understated, the G90 provides a comfortable ride and surprisingly nimble handling for its size.
—
Charles Singh,
USA Today,
18 June 2026
The streamlined silhouette feels clean and understated, while the neutral color options slip seamlessly into a travel wardrobe.
—
Rosie Marder,
Travel + Leisure,
18 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Caitlin Gunther,
Condé Nast Traveler,
19 June 2026
It cannot be understated how perfect the first 45 minutes were, in particular.
—
Dean Jones,
New York Times,
18 June 2026
While its exterior is understated, the G90 provides a comfortable ride and surprisingly nimble handling for its size.
—
Charles Singh,
USA Today,
18 June 2026
The streamlined silhouette feels clean and understated, while the neutral color options slip seamlessly into a travel wardrobe.
—
Rosie Marder,
Travel + Leisure,
18 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for understate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for understate
Verb
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To minimize risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises incorporating frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
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Keep all windows and doors closed so your pet cannot easily escape, and draw the shades to minimize the sound and flashes of light.
Verb
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The scale of the exposure is easy to underplay.
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YouTube as the new film school, YouTube as the new film festival, YouTube as the new music-video breeding ground — is to dramatically underplay it.
Verb
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In April, the Superior Court dismissed the three citations Hubbard received in May 2025 when no park ranger or city attorney appeared for the prosecution, his lawsuit states.
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Freeney did not dismiss the business side of the arrangement.
Verb
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Streamers including Netflix have downplayed their interest in taking on solo ownership of the Emmys and the fact hat none of these companies has snapped up the rights so far is telling.
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Kevin Hassett, director of the White House's National Economic Council, downplayed Thursday's report, pointing to a positive trend for the labor market in previous months.
Cite this Entry
“Understate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/understate. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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