To underestimate or undervalue something, particularly concerning its significance, capabilities, potential, or the resources required. It implies a failure to accurately assess the full scope or impact of a situation, often leading to negative consequences. It often refers to not giving sufficient credit or weight to an element or variable in a calculation or analysis. The act suggests a lack of foresight or a dismissal of potentially important factors, leading to inaccurate conclusions or inadequate preparations. This miscalculation is often born from ignorance or a deliberate choice to minimize the apparent significance. It can also suggest a lack of understanding of the complexities involved. Underreckoning, therefore, results in outcomes which are often disappointing or far worse.
Underreckon meaning with examples
- The team drastically **underreckoned** the impact of the opponent's star player, leading to a crushing defeat. They didn't account for his agility or strategic thinking, leading to a lack of adequate defensive preparation and ultimately a poor performance. This resulted in strategic missteps and their failure to adapt to the changing pace of the game.
- Her initial assessment of the project's financial demands **underreckoned** the costs, which led to severe budget overruns. She underestimated the time needed, failed to include essential supplies in the calculations and thus failed to adequately forecast the resources needed. The consequence was a scramble for additional funding.
- History showed leaders consistently **underreckoned** the lengths that people will go to defend their freedom which often led to unexpected prolonged periods of war. They lacked a full understanding of the resolve and commitment to principles. This misjudgement resulted in costly prolonged engagements.
- Experts consistently underreckon the resilience of ecosystems to environmental changes. This lack of insight has, for decades, led to conservation efforts not succeeding, leading to the potential loss of biodiversity or irreversible ecological damage. They tend to focus on immediate aspects and ignore broader impacts.