overstate
verb (used with object)
to state too strongly; exaggerate.
had overstated
-
past perfectof overstate.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Forecasts for its profit had been downgraded after it surfaced that WH Smith's business in North America had overstated revenues possibly by as much as £50m.
From BBC ● Dec. 19, 2025
American company Verra found that dozens of their rice-methane projects run by Chinese firms had overstated emissions cuts or failed to implement promised practices.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 5, 2025
The letter from a lawyer for the company said Brown had overstated the nature of talks and breached a non-disclosure agreement.
From Reuters ● Apr. 8, 2023
The state’s lawyers said in the brief that the plaintiffs had overstated the sweep of the new law’s restrictions on carrying guns in sensitive places.
From New York Times ● Jan. 11, 2023
She began to wonder whether Miss Janet had overstated them and the delights of independence.
From The Head Girl at the Gables by Angela Brazil
