understatement

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun understatement has 1 sense

understatement - a statement that is restrained in ironic contrast to what might have been said
--₁ is a kind of statement
Antonyms: exaggeration, overstatement, magnification
--₁ has particulars: litotes, meiosis
Derived form: verb understate₁

Definitions from the Web

Understatement

Noun

A figure of speech used to intentionally express something as less significant or lower in magnitude than it actually is.

Example sentences:

His description of the challenge as "a little difficult" was a clear understatement.
The CEO's remark that the company had "a few financial issues" was a massive understatement considering the bankruptcy.

Verb

To express something as less significant or lower in magnitude than it actually is.

Example sentences:

She understated her accomplishments during the interview to appear more humble.
He always understates his true abilities, making it hard to gauge his potential.

Adjective

Characterized by the use of understatement, indicating something in a way that downplays its importance or magnitude.

Example sentences:

The comedian's understatement style of humor earned her a loyal following.
His understated response to the success of his book showed his modesty.