Underrate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘Ž
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underrate

[หŒสŒndษ™หˆreษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in relationships

To underestimate the value, importance, or quality of someone or something.

Synonyms

underappreciate, underestimate, undervalue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
underrate

Used when someone is given less credit than they deserve, often relating to talent or capabilities.

  • Many underrate her singing abilities despite her impressive vocal range
  • The movie was underrated by critics but loved by audiences
underestimate

Used when someone inaccurately judges something or someone to be less capable or important than they actually are. Can have negative implications if it leads to mistakes or errors in judgment.

  • It's easy to underestimate the challenges of mountain climbing
  • Never underestimate your opponent in a debate
undervalue

Used when assigning lower worth to something than it realistically holds, often in a financial or quantitative sense.

  • Many people undervalue antique furniture until they see its market price
  • His contributions to the project are undervalued by the management
underappreciate

Used when someone's efforts or contributions are not fully recognized or valued.

  • Employees often feel underappreciated when their hard work goes unnoticed
  • The contributions of support staff are sometimes underappreciated

Examples of usage

  • I feel like you underrate me sometimes.
  • Don't underrate the impact of your words on others.
Context #2 | Verb

in sports

To underestimate the ability or skill level of an opponent.

Synonyms

underestimate, underestimate, undervalue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
underrate

This word is often used when someone's abilities, talents, or potential are not fully recognized or appreciated. It tends to emphasize a lack of recognition for someone's true worth.

  • People tend to underrate his capabilities just because he is humble.
  • Don't underrate her musical talent; she is truly gifted.
underestimate

This term is used when someone makes a mistake in judging the difficulty, size, or importance of something, usually considering it to be less than it actually is. It can be about people or things and often implies a wrongful judgment.

  • We shouldn't underestimate the time required to complete this project.
  • They underestimated her determination to succeed.

Examples of usage

  • It would be a mistake to underrate their team.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive biases can lead individuals to underrate themselves or others, often due to lack of awareness or negative past experiences.
  • Underrating can impact motivation, as those who feel undervalued may become less engaged or proactive in their pursuits.
  • Conversely, when people are overrated, it can create pressure or anxiety, highlighting the delicate balance of self-perception and external evaluation.

Literature

  • Many literary figures have been known to be underrated during their lifetimes, only to be recognized later, such as Emily Dickinson and Virginia Woolf.
  • In storytelling, characters often underestimate the abilities of others, leading to surprising outcomes and character growth.
  • Themes of underappreciation appear frequently in literature, often serving as a catalyst for conflict or character development.

Pop Culture

  • Certain films or albums are considered underrated by critics, yet they develop a cult following, exemplifying the disconnect between mainstream recognition and true artistic value.
  • In sports, players who are underrated can surprise fans with their talent, challenging the assumptions made by analysts and pundits.
  • Social media often highlights underrated talents, from artists to chefs, showcasing the idea that mainstream approval isnโ€™t the only measure of worth.

Origin of 'underrate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'underrate' comes from the prefix 'under-' meaning below or beneath, and the word 'rate', which means to assess or evaluate.
  • It has been in use since at least the 19th century, indicating a longstanding recognition of the concept in English.
  • The idea of rating things has been present since ancient times, evolving with the need to measure value in various contexts.

The word 'underrate' originated in the early 17th century, with the prefix 'under-' meaning beneath or below, and 'rate' meaning estimate. Over time, 'underrate' has been used to describe the act of underestimating or undervaluing something or someone. It is commonly used in various contexts, including relationships, sports, and general assessments of value.


See also: berate, overrate, overrated, rate, rated, rates, rating, ratings, underrated, underrating.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,601, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.