underestimate him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underestimate him" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone not to undervalue or misjudge a person's abilities or potential. Example: "Don't underestimate him; he has a lot of hidden talents that will surprise you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I won't underestimate him.

Independent

We underestimate him.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The national media underestimate him".

The New Yorker

Democrats should not underestimate him.

The New York Times

Underestimate him at your peril.

The New York Times

I certainly didn't underestimate him".

The New York Times - Sports

I would not underestimate him.

The New York Times

"They tend to underestimate him.

The Guardian

"Many people underestimate him," he said.

The New York Times

"We can often underestimate him," she said.

The Guardian

Of course I don't underestimate him.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "underestimate him", ensure the context provides a clear reason why others might undervalue the person. For example, highlight their unassuming nature or past experiences that might lead to misjudgment.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of underestimating the person. While it's important to highlight potential, overstating the negative outcomes can weaken your argument and make it seem less credible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underestimate him" functions as a warning or advice, urging the listener or reader not to undervalue someone's abilities or potential. Ludwig's examples show it used across various contexts to highlight overlooked capabilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "underestimate him" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to advise against undervaluing someone's abilities or potential. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is frequently found in news and media contexts, serving as a caution against misjudgment. Related phrases include "don't sell him short" and "don't take him lightly". When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates why someone might be undervalued, but avoid exaggerating the consequences of such underestimation. Overall, it's a valuable phrase for promoting a more accurate and fair assessment of individuals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't underrate him

This is a direct synonym, advising against assigning a lower value to his abilities.

don't sell him short

This idiom means not to undervalue someone's abilities or potential.

don't take him lightly

This suggests that the person should be taken seriously due to their capabilities.

don't think less of him

Advises against lowering one's opinion or assessment of his abilities.

don't dismiss him

This warns against rejecting or ignoring the person's potential impact or skills.

don't count him out

This means not to assume he is incapable of succeeding or contributing.

avoid misjudging him

This focuses on preventing an incorrect assessment of his character or skills.

give him due credit

This implies acknowledging his accomplishments and capabilities adequately.

recognize his potential

This suggests acknowledging and appreciating his hidden abilities.

appreciate his capabilities

This highlights the importance of understanding and valuing his skills.

FAQs

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

You can use "underestimate him" when you want to advise someone not to undervalue or misjudge a person's abilities or potential. For example, "Don't underestimate him; he has a lot of hidden talents that will surprise you".

What does it mean to "underestimate him"?

To "underestimate him" means to undervalue or misjudge his abilities, potential, or significance. It suggests that others may not fully appreciate what he is capable of.

What can I say instead of "underestimate him"?

You can use alternatives like "don't sell him short", "don't take him lightly", or "don't underrate him" depending on the context.

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

It is appropriate to use the phrase "underestimate him" when you believe someone is being undervalued or not taken seriously, and you want to emphasize their potential or capabilities that others may be overlooking.