Underestimate Meaning and Definition
Underestimate
Pronunciation
/ˌʌndərˈestɪmət/
Part of Speech
Verb and Noun
Definition
To fail to take proper notice of (something’s importance or significance) or to fail to understand (the true nature or extent of something).
Examples
- Many people underestimated the difficulty of the project.
- She underestimated the distance to the next town.
Synonyms
- Undervalue
- Misjudge
Antonyms
- Overtake
- Exceed
Etymology
From Latin “under” (underneath) + “estimare” (to estimate), and the negative prefix “un-“.
Usage Notes
Underestimate can be used as both a verb and a noun. When used as a verb, it means to fail to take proper notice of something or to fail to understand it. When used as a noun, it refers to the act of underestimating something.
Cultural References
In pop culture, underestimate is often used in phrases like “Don’t underestimate the power of the underdog” or “Don’t underestimate the importance of preparation”. It is also used in various forms of media, such as movies, TV shows, and literature.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Don’t underestimate the power of the underdog
- Don’t underestimate the importance of preparation
Related Words or Phrases
- Overestimate
- Underprice
- Undervalue
Collocations
- underestimate someone’s abilities
- underestimate the complexity of the task
Frequency of Use
Underestimate is a common verb and noun in everyday language, especially in contexts where people are trying to make informed decisions or avoid mistakes.
Common Misspellings
- understatinate
- underestamatate