we cannot underestimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we cannot underestimate" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize the importance or significance of something that should not be overlooked or undervalued. Example: "When considering the impact of climate change, we cannot underestimate the role of individual actions in contributing to larger environmental changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

She adds: "We cannot underestimate the importance of small businesses.

The Guardian

"We cannot underestimate the changing mind-set," Ms. Hart said.

The New York Times

We cannot underestimate the damage homelessness has on children's lives.

The Guardian

"We cannot underestimate the problems and we should look for solutions to all of them".

The New York Times

We cannot underestimate the psychological impact facing litigation can also have on doctors.

The Guardian

"We cannot underestimate how serious our position is in the table.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

We really cannot underestimate the retro-movements of the terrorist world".

The New York Times - Books

"We also cannot underestimate the significance of the announcement on Monday, which will see more than £350m of direct investment in the Welsh railway infrastructure.

BBC

Given that the vast majority of Americans rely on these systems for potable and sanitary water, we truly cannot underestimate the devastating impact of water supply contamination or disruption to the network of pipes, pumps and other equipment that constitute the systems that regulate our water.

TechCrunch

I cannot underestimate that".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"You cannot underestimate Bradford.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase to introduce a critical factor or potential challenge that might be easily overlooked, thereby urging the audience to give it appropriate attention.

Common error

While effective, "we cannot underestimate" can lose its impact if used excessively. Vary your language by incorporating alternatives like "it's crucial to recognize" or "we must acknowledge" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we cannot underestimate" functions as a modal phrase used to express the necessity of acknowledging and properly valuing something. Ludwig shows its use in highlighting crucial aspects that should not be overlooked, aiming to ensure appropriate consideration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we cannot underestimate" is a versatile modal phrase used to emphasize the importance of acknowledging and properly valuing a specific issue, factor, or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, business and formal communications.

While highly effective, it's important to avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "we must acknowledge" or "we should not overlook" to maintain reader engagement. Remember to clearly define the subject you are emphasizing to maximize the impact of your statement. According to Ludwig, this ensures that the significance of the phrase is fully realized by the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we must acknowledge

Replaces "cannot underestimate" with a more direct call to recognize the importance.

we should not overlook

Substitutes "cannot underestimate" with a suggestion to pay attention to.

it is crucial to recognize

Emphasizes the critical need for acknowledgment, instead of warning against undervaluing.

it is vital to consider

Highlights the importance of taking something into account.

we must not dismiss

Replaces "underestimate" with a stronger term suggesting rejection.

we should bear in mind

Focuses on remembering and considering, rather than directly addressing undervaluation.

it would be a mistake to disregard

Suggests the negative consequences of ignoring something important.

it is essential to appreciate

Emphasizes the need to understand and value something.

we ought to take seriously

Replaces "cannot underestimate" with a command to give something importance.

we have to give due weight to

Focuses on providing the appropriate level of consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "we cannot underestimate" in a sentence?

Use "we cannot underestimate" to emphasize the importance of something that should not be overlooked. For example, "We cannot underestimate the impact of early childhood education on future academic success."

What can I say instead of "we cannot underestimate"?

You can use alternatives like "we must acknowledge", "we should not overlook", or "it is crucial to recognize" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "we cannot underestimate" or "we should not underestimate"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "We cannot underestimate" emphasizes the impossibility of undervaluing something, while "we should not underestimate" is a recommendation against doing so. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

What is the difference between "we cannot underestimate" and "we cannot ignore"?

"We cannot underestimate" suggests that something should be given proper consideration, while "we cannot ignore" implies that something demands immediate attention and cannot be disregarded. Underestimating involves undervaluing, while ignoring means completely disregarding.