Basic Details
Word: Underestimate
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To think that something is less important, good, or powerful than it really is.
Synonyms: Underrate, undervalue, misjudge
Antonyms: Overestimate, value highly
Idioms and Phrases
- Don't underestimate the competition: A warning not to think less of your rivals. Example: "Even though they were new to the tournament, we shouldn't underestimate the competition."
- Underestimate at your peril: Warning that you might face negative consequences if you underestimate someone or something. Example: "He underestimated the projects complexity at his peril, and it caused many delays."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Many people tend to underestimate how much effort it takes to learn a new language.
Example 2: Never underestimate your own abilities; you may surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
Example 3: The teacher warned us not to underestimate the importance of studying for the exams.
Fun Fact
The word "underestimate" combines the prefix "under" (meaning less) and "estimate" (meaning to judge the value of something). It has been used since at least the 19th century in English literature.
Famous Quote
"It is a mistake to underestimate the power of a small group of committed individuals to change the world." Margaret Mead
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "underestimate" mean?
a) To think something is more important than it is
b) To think something is less important than it is
c) To ignore something completely
d) To enjoy something very much
Answer: b) To think something is less important than it is
2. Which of these is a synonym of "underestimate"?
a) Overvalue
b) Underrate
c) Appreciate
d) Celebrate
Answer: b) Underrate
3. Which is an antonym of "underestimate"?
a) Misjudge
b) Overestimate
c) Underrate
d) Ignore
Answer: b) Overestimate
4. Which sentence uses "underestimate" correctly?
a) He decided to underestimate the math problem carefully.
b) She underestimated his ability to finish the race.
c) They will underestimate the painting.
d) I want to underestimate my birthday party.
Answer: b) She underestimated his ability to finish the race.
5. Which idiom means to think less of something?
a) Don't underestimate the competition
b) Join the club
c) Jump on the bandwagon
d) The early bird catches the worm
Answer: a) Don't underestimate the competition
