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Definition of understatement

understatement

/ˈʌndərˌsteɪtmənt/
un · der · state · ment
Plural:understatements
•
Adjective:understated
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understatement Lexical Profile

understatement Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The presentation of something as being smaller, worse, or less important than it actually is, often for ironic or rhetorical effect.

Example

"To say that the sudden market crash caused some concern among investors is a massive understatement."

2

Restraint or lack of emphasis in expression, style, or artistic design.

Example

"The film's emotional power comes from the quiet understatement of the lead actor's performance."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

understate
understated
understatedly
understatement
understock
understory
understrength

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Understatement. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/understatement
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