understate

American  

[uhn-der-steyt] / ˌʌn dərˈsteɪt /

verb (used with object)

understated, understating

1. to state or represent less strongly or strikingly than the facts would bear out; set forth in restrained, moderate, or weak terms.

   The casualty lists understate the extent of the disaster.

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understate British  

/ ˌʌndəˈsteɪt /

verb

1. to state (something) in restrained terms, often to obtain an ironic effect

2. to state that (something, such as a number) is less than it is

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Other Word Forms

• understatement noun

Etymology

Origin of understate

First recorded in 1815–25; under- + state

Example Sentences

So, the leverage target likely understates its gearing.

From The Wall Street Journal

David Protein stayed mostly quiet at first after a lawsuit accused it of understating its bars’ calories and fat content in January.

From The Wall Street Journal

The figures are likely understated because many victims are reluctant to report to police, the group said.

From The Wall Street Journal

This understates the reality: Experts have concluded that Mr. White’s exotic propulsion doesn’t work.

From The Wall Street Journal

That may understate the value of capital gains for the wealthy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• downplay
• lessen
• minimize
• underrate
• undervalue