underestimate

[uhn-der-es-tuh-meyt, uhn-der-es-tuh-mit, -meyt]

verb (used with object)

underestimated, underestimating 

1. to estimate at too low a value, rate, or the like.

   Synonyms: miscalculate, misjudge, underrate, undervalue

verb (used without object)

underestimated, underestimating 

1. to make an estimate lower than that which would be correct.

noun

1. an estimate that is too low.

underestimate

/ ˌʌndərˈɛstɪˌmeɪt /

verb

1. to make too low an estimate of

   he underestimated the cost

2. to think insufficiently highly of

   to underestimate a person

noun

1. too low an estimate

Usage

Underestimate is sometimes wrongly used where overestimate is meant: the importance of his work cannot be overestimated (not cannot be underestimated )

Other Word Forms

• underestimation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of underestimate¹

First recorded in 1805–15; under- + estimate

Example Sentences

There was certainly no chance of Newcastle underestimating Union as the visitors looked to bounce back from the weekend's painful defeat against Arsenal.

From BBC

Asked about internal challenges to his leadership, Sir Keir said he had "been underestimated every time" he had taken on a senior role.

From BBC

It also found parents underestimated the types of harmful content their children were viewing and that there was support for stricter rules on phones in schools.

From BBC

Andy Burnham has warned against "underestimating the peril the party is in" at a fringe meeting at the Labour party conference.

From BBC

Based on past experience, one should never underestimate the willingness of some in the party to delude themselves into believing the GOP might operate in good faith.

From Salon

Related Words

• belittle 
• miscalculate 
• underrate 
• undervalue