Understatement

Quick meaning: Understatement is a noun meaning (countable) An instance of such phrasing or lack of emphasis; an incomplete statement.

Meaning

(countable) An instance of such phrasing or lack of emphasis; an incomplete statement.

More Meanings

1. An incomplete disclosure that intentionally withholds relevant information.
2. (uncountable, rhetoric) A figure of speech whereby something is made to seem smaller or less important than it actually is, either through phrasing or lack of emphasis, often for ironic effect.

Example Sentences

A master of understatement

Now that's an understatement.

And that mode of expression is very demurring and self-deprecating. Victorian English was all about understatement.

Word Forms

• understatements

Synonyms for understatement

Depending on context, synonyms include meiosis, trivialization.

Antonyms for understatement

Common opposites include auxesis, hyperbole, exaggeration, overstatement, magnification.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include say, euphemism, tell, reality, enough, moderation.

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