as in minimizes
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 understates
In practice, that means the median sales price of new homes understates the actual discount, because many concessions don’t show up in the data.
—
Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025
Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for understates
Verb
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This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.—
Southern California Weather Report,
Oc Register,
19 Sep. 2025
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Ortec is committed to sustainability through our optimization software, which minimizes fuel consumption and emissions by optimizing routes, loads and vehicle utilization—potentially reducing CO2 output for partners.—
Andre Claudio,
Sourcing Journal,
19 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Judge dismisses case against 'fake electors' in Michigan Congress to hear more about UFOs.—
Rebecca Morin,
USA Today,
9 Sep. 2025
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Ashton also dismisses the concerns that a three-year degree lacks the many electives and opportunities for self-discovery.—
Bryan Penprase,
Forbes.com,
26 Aug. 2025
Verb
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Continue reading … BASELESS ACCUSATIONS – Jasmine Crockett likens ICE to 'slave patrols,' downplays migrant crime.—
,
FOXNews.com,
15 Sep. 2025
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Critics argue this approach lacks clarity and downplays the importance of protecting vulnerable populations.—
Amanda Castro,
MSNBC Newsweek,
19 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Understates.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/understates. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.
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