understated

USAGE SUMMARY

"understated" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is an adjective that is used to describe something that is not exaggerated or overly done. For example: Her graceful style of dance was understated yet elegant.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His record - two cups within six months of his appointment, a domestic treble in his first full season, a second title in 2005 and reaching the last 16 of the Champions League - set the context for a rueful but masterfully understated parting comment: "I'm sure those people who look at the facts will say that during a period of downsizing, I was reasonably successful".

The Guardian - Sport

Listen, there are plenty of fine understated comedy-dramas about at the moment – Togetherness, Transparent and Looking, to name three.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I keep going back to the more understated tracks: Midnight Caller and End Credits.

The Guardian - Music

But the two understated Scots formed a formidable partnership as they persuaded George Osborne in early 2014 that the Treasury needed to harden its position, outlined in an analysis paper in April 2013, that a currency union was "highly unlikely".

The Guardian

Related: Jean Touitou of APC on why unsexy, understated fashion feels fresh Two weeks later, and in London to open a new store in Soho, Touitou is still reeling from what happened.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Tourism is what makes the island tick these days, although thankfully it is of the understated variety.

The Guardian - Travel

Dead Man's Shoes, the eviscerating 2004 revenge drama that he co-wrote, may still be his calling card, but he long ago proved his versatility with comic performances in Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg's Hot Fuzz and The World's End, and, respectively, understated and then wildly overstated roles in Richard Ayoade's Submarine and The Double.

The Guardian - Film

Lesser fly-on-the-wall programmes would have ladled the pathos on with a shovel but there's an unfussy, understated humanity here.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Instant Crush, the one with the strangely understated (and autotuned) Julian Casablancas vocal is at 58. Updated at 3.46pm AEST Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 3.23pm AndT04:23 And here comes Kanye with Bound 2 at 59.

The Guardian

Now act like it!" screams Queen Helena in one understated moment.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The mix of a feminine silhouette with menswear detailing gives a shirt dress a distinct air of understated cool".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "understated" to describe qualities, styles, or approaches that deliberately avoid being loud, flashy, or attention-seeking. It's often used to convey sophistication and good taste.

Common error

Avoid using "understated" when you mean "underestimated". "Understated" describes a deliberate lack of emphasis, while "underestimated" means to misjudge the value or importance of something.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "understated" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate a quality of restraint or lack of ostentation. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes something not exaggerated or overly done. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in describing styles, performances, and comments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

28%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "understated" is a versatile adjective used to describe something characterized by restraint, subtlety, and a lack of ostentation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. It commonly appears in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, conveying refinement and sophistication. Related terms include "restrained", "subtle", and "unassuming", offering alternative ways to express a similar meaning. When writing, it's important not to confuse "understated" with "underestimated". Use "understated" to describe deliberate lack of emphasis and not to signify misjudging something's importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

restrained

Focuses on the control and moderation of expression.

subtle

Emphasizes the delicacy and indirectness of expression.

unassuming

Highlights the lack of pretension or arrogance.

low-key

Stresses the casual and relaxed nature.

muted

Indicates a softening or toning down of intensity.

modest

Focuses on humility and simplicity.

reserved

Emphasizes a quality of self-restraint in expression or behavior.

unostentatious

Highlights the avoidance of showiness.

simple

Focuses on lack of complexity or embellishment.

minimalist

Refers to extreme simplicity and reduction to essential elements.

FAQs

How to use "understated" in a sentence?

Use "understated" to describe something that is subtle and not overly elaborate. For example, "Her "understated elegance" was apparent in her simple dress and quiet demeanor".

What can I say instead of "understated"?

You can use alternatives like "restrained", "subtle", or "unassuming" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "understated" and "reserved"?

"Understated" implies a deliberate choice to minimize emphasis or flashiness, while "reserved" suggests a more general reluctance to express emotions or opinions openly.

When is it appropriate to use "understated"?

It is appropriate to use "understated" when describing styles, qualities, or actions that deliberately avoid being ostentatious or attention-grabbing. For example, an "understated design" or an "understated performance".