Undershoot

To fail to reach or achieve a target, goal, or desired level. This can apply to various contexts, from financial projections to missile trajectories. It implies a deficit or deficiency, falling short of the intended objective. The act of undershooting suggests miscalculation, underestimation, or inadequate performance, resulting in a result that is less than optimal or planned for. It can signify a lack of accuracy, power, or resources required to meet the established benchmark. The consequences of undershooting can range from minor inconvenience to significant losses, depending on the specific application. Often used when referring to economic or technical scenarios, and the opposite of overshooting, achieving more than was expected.

Undershoot meaning with examples

• The company undershot its quarterly revenue target by 10%, causing investor concern and a dip in stock prices. The marketing campaign failed to attract the projected number of leads, indicating an undershooting of its effectiveness. The team undershot the project's deadline, resulting in delayed product launch and lost sales. The pilot undershot the runway, leading to a minor but avoidable landing in the grass before it.
• Despite the new product's positive reviews, sales figures undershot initial projections, necessitating a reassessment of the marketing strategy. The rocket engine's thrust slightly undershot the required force, resulting in a slightly lower orbital altitude than planned. The negotiations undershot the expected compromise and lead to further delays. The meteorologist undershot the severity of the storm, leading to a lack of preparedness by some inhabitants of the area.
• Economists noted that inflation rates undershot government targets for the second consecutive year, raising concerns about economic stagnation. The budget allocation for the project severely undershot the actual costs, forcing the team to cut corners and compromise on quality. After extensive deliberation, the politician's speech seemed to undershoot the expectations of their constituents. The delivery of a new vehicle undershot the original date set by the production team.
• The artist's estimate of the painting's sale price significantly undershot its final auction value. The team's projected profits sadly undershot their initial goals for the year. After trying to reach the top of the ramp, the skateboarder's jump undershot the expected length. The new restaurant chain's expansion sadly undershot their sales predictions for the year.