Understate

To present something as less significant or serious than it actually is; to minimize or downplay the importance or magnitude of something. This can involve using restrained language, avoiding exaggeration, or intentionally portraying a situation as less extreme or impactful than it objectively appears. Often, understatement serves a rhetorical purpose, creating irony, emphasizing a point through contrast, or conveying a subtle humor.

Understate meaning with examples

• After surviving a near-fatal car accident, he casually said he'd had a 'bit of a bump.' This was a classic example of understatement, completely dismissing the severity of the trauma. His friends were shocked, knowing the extent of the injuries that could have ended it all. He felt no need to make a fuss.
• The news report, concerning the devastating hurricane's impact on the coastal town, understated the total number of casualties, suggesting a much lower number than the actual, verified count. Critics accused them of minimizing the human cost to avoid panic and maintain a false sense of control, which failed.
• When asked about the team's chances of winning the championship, the coach said they were 'optimistic.' This was a considerable understatement, since the team was undefeated and considered the overwhelming favorite. They were known for being understated in the media.
• She described the financial crisis as a 'small blip' when, in reality, it had led to widespread job losses and economic instability. This apparent understatment, made with a subtle smile, revealed her true feelings. This shows she was trying to downplay it for the media.