Exaggerated: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing something that is made to seem larger, better, worse, or more important than it really is, often to create an impression or to stress a point.

• Her story about the haunted house was greatly exaggerated
• He exaggerated his success to impress his friends

Typically used in formal or written contexts to describe something that has been presented or described as more significant or serious than it really is.

• The risks of the plan were overstated in the report
• She overstated her qualifications on the job application

Typically used when something is increased or raised in an unjustified manner; it can often imply a negative connotation when discussing self-importance or prices.

• The company's inflated prices drove customers away
• He has an inflated opinion of his own importance

Used to describe statements or situations that are deliberately overstated or exaggerated for effect, often found in literature or rhetoric.

• His claims were so hyperbolic that no one believed him
• The movie's portrayal of the event was hyperbolic for dramatic effect

Often used when details are added to a story or statement to make it more interesting or entertaining, sometimes at the expense of the truth.

• He embellished his travel stories to make them more exciting
• The report was embellished with anecdotes to keep the readers engaged

Describing something that is made to seem larger or more important than it really is, often in stories or descriptions.

• Her story about meeting the celebrity seemed exaggerated
• His claims of wealth were clearly exaggerated

Applied when someone says something in a way that makes it seem more important or dramatic than it is, often for persuasion.

• Politicians often overstate their achievements
• It's easy to overstate the benefits of the new policy

Typically used in economic or metaphorical contexts to describe an increase in size, value, or importance, often beyond a reasonable level.

• The company tried to inflate the stock prices
• The author inflated the significance of the findings

Used when adding extra details to something to make it more interesting or attractive, often used in storytelling or decorating.

• He likes to embellish his tales to make them more captivating
• She embellished the cake with colorful icing and edible flowers

Describes going beyond what is normal or necessary, often leading to something being less effective or worse.

• You shouldn’t overdo it with the makeup
• He tends to overdo the spices in his cooking