Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
understatement
noun
/ˌʌn.dɚˈsteɪt.mənt/
Definition
A way of expressing something that makes it seem less important or serious than it actually is.
Examples
- Calling a hurricane ‘a bit of wind’ is a classic understatement.
- His description of the team’s loss as ‘not the best day’ was a huge understatement.
Meaning
Understatement is often used for ironic or humorous effect, conveying a message in a subtle or restrained manner.
Synonyms
- minimization
- downplay
- retrenchment
