be underestimated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be underestimated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential for someone or something to not be fully recognized for their abilities or value. Example: "Many talented individuals often feel that their skills can be underestimated in a competitive environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

China shouldn't be underestimated.

The New Yorker

Chance cannot be underestimated.

The New York Times

He may be underestimated.

The Guardian - Sport

Trump shouldn't be underestimated.

The New Yorker

"He shouldn't be underestimated".

The Guardian

That really can't be underestimated".

The New York Times

"Tom's achievement shouldn't be underestimated".

The New Yorker

And it cannot be underestimated.

The New York Times

The urgency cannot be underestimated.

Yale University

She should not be underestimated".

The Guardian

"He should never be underestimated.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be underestimated", consider the audience's perspective and provide context to support the assertion that something is, in fact, being undervalued.

Common error

Avoid using "be underestimated" in overly simplistic or obvious scenarios. Strive to provide specific details and insights to give the statement more weight and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be underestimated" functions as a verb phrase within a passive construction. It typically modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject's value, ability, or potential is not being fully recognized. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the structure is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

10%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be underestimated" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to convey the importance of not underrating something or someone. It's frequently found in news and media, as well as academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. To avoid common pitfalls, strive for specificity in usage and consider related phrases like "be undervalued" or "be underrated" for nuanced meaning. Remember, effective communication requires considering context and audience when suggesting that something or someone may "be underestimated".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be misjudged

Highlights an incorrect assessment of character or ability.

be underrated

Implies a lower assessment of quality or skill than deserved.

be undervalued

Focuses on the lack of financial or material recognition.

be discounted

Indicates that someone's importance or contribution is minimized or ignored.

not receive due credit

Highlights the lack of acknowledgement for one's contributions or abilities.

be overlooked

Suggests being missed or not noticed, rather than having one's abilities misjudged.

be sold short

Emphasizes that someone or something is not given the opportunity to show their true potential.

be taken lightly

Suggests not being treated with the seriousness or respect one deserves.

be written off

Indicates a premature dismissal of someone's value or potential.

not be given enough weight

Suggests that something's importance is not properly considered.

FAQs

How can I use "be underestimated" in a sentence?

You can use "be underestimated" to suggest that someone or something is more capable or important than others believe. For example, "The impact of social media on political campaigns should not "be underestimated"".

What does it mean when someone says "never be underestimated"?

Saying that someone should "never "be underestimated"" implies that they possess hidden abilities, intelligence, or resilience that people often fail to recognize. It's a warning against dismissing their potential impact.

Are "be underestimated" and "be undervalued" interchangeable?

While both phrases suggest a lack of proper recognition, "be underestimated" refers more to a misjudgment of potential or ability, while "be undervalued" usually refers to a lack of appreciation for monetary or intrinsic worth.

What are some situations where one might "be misjudged" and therefore "be underestimated"?

People may "be misjudged" and "be underestimated" due to their age, appearance, background, or initial performance. This can lead to others underrating their capabilities or future contributions. Ensure that you consider the context and do not "be taken lightly".