is slightly understated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is slightly understated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is presented in a way that is less intense or less dramatic than it could be, often implying that the true significance or impact is greater than what is expressed. Example: "The film's emotional depth is slightly understated, making the audience reflect more deeply on the characters' struggles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

cThe width of the estimated CI is taken to be the same as the width of the unadjusted estimate, so may be slightly understated.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

bThe width of the estimated CI is taken to be the same as the width of the unadjusted estimate, so may be slightly understated.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

This is a slightly understated way of doing your hair in an 80s style.

WikiHow

The other actors are slightly less understated.

The New York Times

China's benchmark lending rate is slightly positive but this understates the extent of its recent monetary tightening: the central bank has also sharply raised banks' reserve requirements and capped credit growth.Mercury risingOur final temperature gauge is the external balance.

The Economist

I find colors to be correct, but slightly understated.

TechCrunch

And that was a pity, because the slightly understated performance was interesting in the way the three leads acted their roles primarily through movement, from freshly funny mime sequences that recalled silent-film performing to the three character-setting solos, danced by Mr. Ulbricht and Mr. Angle with Damian Woetzel in the Latin-syncopated final solo.

The New York Times - Arts

Drowned in Sound's John Calvert gave the album a rating of five out of ten, finding it to be "slightly bland" and "nondescript in its understated sophistication".

Wikipedia

"This was my reaction against the Englishness of English painting which so greatly valued a slightly understated, tentative figuration".

The Guardian - Arts

In the first quarter of 2001, the company said, it slightly understated its revenue, originally reporting revenue of $308 million but later saying it was $327.8 million.

The New York Times

"He's hitting.500 with runners in scoring position," Piniella said, slightly understating Suzuki's.521 average.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is slightly understated" when you want to convey that something is presented with less intensity or significance than it actually possesses. This can add a layer of nuance and sophistication to your writing, inviting the reader to perceive the implied depth.

Common error

Avoid using "is slightly understated" too frequently, as it can diminish its impact and make your writing seem overly cautious. Instead, vary your phrasing and use stronger language when appropriate to maintain a balanced and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is slightly understated" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or clause. It qualifies the degree to which something lacks emphasis or is presented in a subdued manner. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is slightly understated" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for conveying a nuanced form of understatement. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While examples are currently limited, its meaning is clear: something is presented with less intensity than it warrants. Use it judiciously to add depth to your writing and invite your audience to consider the implied significance. Avoid overuse to maintain its impact and ensure a balanced tone. Consider alternatives like "is somewhat muted" or "is a bit restrained" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a bit restrained

Indicates a controlled or subdued quality, akin to presenting something in a less forceful way.

is somewhat muted

Suggests a softening or quieting of something, aligning with the idea of reduced emphasis.

is modestly presented

Highlights the humble or unassuming manner of presentation.

is marginally diminished

Implies a small reduction or lessening, similar to "understated" but focusing on the decrease.

is reasonably subdued

Indicates a state of being quiet, controlled, or less intense than expected.

is carefully tempered

Suggests a deliberate moderation to avoid excess, similar to understatement.

is subtly conservative

Emphasizes a cautious or reserved approach, which can lead to understatement.

is delicately softened

Implies that something has been made less harsh or intense.

is gently minimized

Highlights the act of reducing importance or impact in a mild manner.

is quietly diminished

Focuses on the silent or unpronounced aspect of the lessening.

FAQs

How can I use "is slightly understated" in a sentence?

You can use "is slightly understated" to suggest that something is presented with less force or emphasis than it deserves. For example, "The importance of this discovery "is slightly understated" in the report".

What are some alternatives to "is slightly understated"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is somewhat muted", "is a bit restrained", or "is gently minimized". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is slightly understated" instead of "is understated"?

Use "is slightly understated" when you want to acknowledge that something is understated but not to a great degree. It adds a level of precision, suggesting a subtle rather than a significant lack of emphasis.

What's the difference between "is slightly understated" and "is greatly exaggerated"?

"Is slightly understated" implies a deliberate lack of emphasis, while "is greatly exaggerated" suggests an overemphasis or overstatement. They are opposite in meaning, with one minimizing and the other maximizing the significance or impact of something.