cannot be underrated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be underrated" is correct and usable in written English.
You would use it to refer to something that has a serious level of importance and is deserving of recognition. For example, "The importance of regular exercise in maintaining physical and mental health cannot be underrated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The importance of memory -- of raw emotion and connection -- cannot be underrated.

HuffPost

As a key part of their foreign policy engagement, the role of Films and music in underscoring the American global influence for instance, cannot be underrated.

HuffPost

Apart from the chronic illness the HCW faces as a result of contracting HIV, the possibility of persistent recurrent nightmares and fear after one's exposure to HIV cannot be underrated [ 3].

BMC Health Services Research

"Nigeria are the favourites in this group but we're a team that cannot be underrated and taken for granted," Nyamilandu said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Unlikely to be underrated again.

The Guardian - Sport

Distraction shouldn't be underrated.

The Economist

Influence not to be underrated.

The Guardian - Sport

Making people happy should never be underrated.

Independent

That burnished tone should not be underrated.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a skill not to be underrated.

The Guardian - Opinion

The past achievements should not to be underrated.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cannot be underrated" to emphasize the genuine importance of something that may be easily overlooked. This phrase adds weight to your argument.

Common error

While effective, "cannot be underrated" can become repetitive if used too frequently. Vary your language by using synonyms like "should not be underestimated" or "deserves greater recognition" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be underrated" functions as an intensifier, emphasizing that something is significantly important and should not be dismissed or its value diminished. Ludwig AI confirms this with real-world examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be underrated" effectively communicates that something holds significant importance and should not be overlooked. While Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically sound, its frequency is relatively rare. Its applications spans across diverse writing genres, including News & Media and Science. When employing this phrase, consider varying your vocabulary to avoid redundancy and ensure a compelling and persuasive message. Understanding its function, purpose, and register helps enhance the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should not be underestimated

Focuses on the potential negative consequences of not recognizing something's true worth.

is of significant importance

Highlights the substantial role or impact of something.

deserves greater recognition

Emphasizes that something should be acknowledged more widely or appreciated.

should be given due consideration

Stresses the need for careful thought and attention to something.

is not to be taken lightly

Highlights the seriousness and potential consequences if something is ignored.

holds considerable value

Emphasizes the inherent worth or benefit of something.

merits careful attention

Suggests the need for thorough examination and consideration.

is critically important

Emphasizes the essential nature of something for achieving a desired outcome.

is paramount

Highlights that something is superior to all others and must be addressed first.

should not be dismissed

Focuses on the mistake that will be done when something is considered as unworthy of attention.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be underrated" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be underrated" to stress the importance of something that is often overlooked. For example, "The role of community support in recovery /s/cannot+be+underrated".

What phrases are similar to "cannot be underrated"?

Alternatives include "should not be underestimated", "is of significant importance", or "deserves greater recognition", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cannot be underrated" a formal or informal expression?

"Cannot be underrated" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in written than spoken English. Choose alternatives like "merits careful attention" for more formal writing.

What is the difference between "cannot be underrated" and "cannot be overstated"?

"Cannot be underrated" suggests something's importance is often missed, while "cannot be overstated" means its importance is so great it's impossible to exaggerate. For example, the value of early education /s/cannot+be+underrated, but the consequences of climate change /s/cannot+be+overstated.