Synonyms for

Underestimated

Verb / ˈʌndɜ:ˈestʌˌmeɪtɪd / Another word for underestimated — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To estimate something to be smaller or less important than it actually is.

Synonyms & similar words

underrate overestimate overvalue underestimate undervalue lowball undervalue underappreciate underrate minimize diminish belittle disparage deprecate downplay neglect ignore overlook discount deemphasize underweigh underjudge undersell underprize underassess

Synonyms by register

Formal

undervalued underassessed underappreciated

Informal

shortchanged sold short written off

Literary

slighted belittled

Antonyms

overestimated valued appreciated recognized acknowledged respected

Common collocations

  • greatly underestimated
  • severely underestimated
  • vastly underestimated
  • underestimated its importance
  • underestimated the difficulty
  • underestimated the impact
  • underestimated the threat

Word family

noun underestimation
verb underestimate
adverb underestimatedly

Usage note

This word implies a failure to recognize the true value, ability, or significance of someone or something. It is often used to explain unexpected outcomes or successes.

Example sentences

  1. He underestimated how hard the test would be and didn't study enough.
  2. The boss underestimated the amount of time it would take to finish the project.
  3. Don't underestimate the importance of eating healthy food.
  4. She was underestimated by her classmates because of her quiet nature.
  5. The team underestimated their opponents and ended up losing the game.

Quotes

  • I have always believed that all things depended upon Fortune, and nothing upon ourselves. But I have lately discovered that it is not so. God, who made us, provides for us, and it is to be presumed that He will not leave us without help to maintain ourselves in any condition to which He has called us. But let no one for this reason underestimate the dangers of life.
  • One should never underestimate the power of books.
  • Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.

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