an underestimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an underestimate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a value or assessment that is lower than the actual amount or level. Example: "The report provided an underestimate of the project's total costs, leading to budget overruns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This was an underestimate.

The Economist

That is probably an underestimate.

The Economist

This might be an underestimate.

The Economist

Nine is probably an underestimate.

The Guardian

That figure may well be an underestimate.

The Economist

That's probably an underestimate, in fact.

The New York Times

However, even this may be an underestimate.

The Economist

Even this may be an underestimate.

The Economist

But the number may be an underestimate.

The New York Times

"Is this an underestimate?" Thompson says.

The New York Times - Magazine

That is almost certainly an underestimate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an underestimate", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being underestimated. Provide additional details or evidence to support the assertion that the initial figure is too low.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating how much something is underestimated without sufficient evidence. Use qualifiers like "potentially" or "likely" if the degree of underestimation is uncertain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an underestimate" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates that a particular value or assessment is lower than the actual or expected amount. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its usage across diverse contexts to express the concept of insufficient estimation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

31%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an underestimate" is a commonly used noun phrase that indicates a value or assessment is lower than the actual or expected amount. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in a wide range of contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Ludwig's examples show this phrase often appears in News & Media, Science, and Academia. To use this phrase effectively, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being underestimated and provide supporting details. Avoid overstating the degree of underestimation without sufficient evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an underestimation

A direct synonym, emphasizing the act of estimating too low.

a lower bound

Indicates a minimum value, implying the actual figure is likely higher.

a conservative estimate

Suggests a cautious approach, where the real value could exceed the stated one.

a minimal assessment

Points to the least possible estimation, suggesting the actual could be much greater.

a gross undervaluation

Highlights a significant discrepancy between the estimated and actual value.

an incomplete calculation

Focuses on the lack of completeness in the calculation process, leading to an understatement.

a modest appraisal

Implies a restrained or humble assessment that may not fully capture the true extent.

a reduced projection

Suggests a forecast that has been deliberately lowered, potentially omitting certain factors.

a partial enumeration

Emphasizes that only a portion has been counted, implying more exists.

a deficient reckoning

Highlights a flaw in the accounting or calculation that resulted in an underestimation.

FAQs

How can I use "an underestimate" in a sentence?

You can use "an underestimate" to indicate that a given value or assessment is lower than the actual amount. For example: "The initial budget was "an underestimate" of the project's true costs."

What is a synonym for "an underestimate"?

Synonyms for "an underestimate" include "an underestimation", "a lower bound", or "a conservative estimate".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an underestimate"?

It's appropriate to use "an underestimate" when you believe a reported figure or assessment is lower than the true value, often due to incomplete data or a cautious approach in the estimation process.

How to avoid making "an underestimate"?

To avoid making "an underestimate", gather comprehensive data, consider all relevant factors, and avoid overly cautious assumptions. Regularly review and adjust estimates as new information becomes available.