Words / B2

und-uh-r-EST-im-ayt/ˌʌndərˈestɪmeɪt/

To underestimate is to guess too low, or take something too lightly: underestimate the cost; underestimate how long. Overestimate is the opposite. Underrate is close for quality. Do not mix underestimate with understate (say less than the truth). Exam advice: do not underestimate timings.

Meaning

To guess that something is smaller, easier, or less serious than it really is.

Examples

• “Do not underestimate how long the reading paper takes.”
• “The Treasury had underestimated inflation, which is why forecasts slipped.”

Good to know

underestimate + noun / how. Opposite: overestimate. Quality: underrate. Mix-up: understate. Exam timings and project costs.

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