Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
gross-understatement
Noun
/ɡroʊs ˌʌndərˈsteɪtmənt/
Definition
An understatement that is significantly below the actual reality or the severity of a situation.
Examples
- Describing the devastating impact of the storm as ‘a little bad weather’ is a gross understatement.
- His claim that the project was ‘a bit challenging’ was really a gross understatement, as it was the most difficult task he had ever faced.
Meaning
Gross understatement refers to a situation where a statement minimizes the truth to such an extent that it becomes almost ridiculous. It can often imply that the reality is far worse than the description provided.
Synonyms
- Minimization
- Understatement
- Downplay
- Too mild a description