Underrated: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when something or someone is not given enough recognition or value compared to their actual worth or talent. Often used in the context of movies, books, or individuals who are extremely talented but not widely recognized.

• This indie film is highly underrated.
• He's one of the most underrated actors in Hollywood.

Use this when someone or something is not appreciated as much as they should be. This often implies that people recognize the existence or contribution but do not fully value it.

• Teachers often feel underappreciated for their hard work.
• Her efforts in the project went underappreciated.

Use this in financial or economic contexts when the worth of an asset, company, person, or effort is lower than it should be. It can also apply in personal contexts where someone’s contributions are not given the due value.

• The stock is currently undervalued and is a good buy.
• She felt undervalued at her job and decided to seek new opportunities.

Use this to describe when someone's abilities, potential, or importance are judged to be less than they really are. It often has a more dramatic or serious tone and is used in competitive or challenging situations.

• The team underestimated their opponents and lost the game.
• She was underestimated by her peers but later proved them wrong.

Use this when someone or something does not receive the formal recognition they deserve, such as awards, mentions, or other formal acknowledgments.

• Her contributions to the company are underrecognized.
• This scientist remains underrecognized for his groundbreaking research.