Underrated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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underrated

[หŒสŒndษ™หˆreษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

quality

Underestimated or undervalued; not given the recognition or praise that it deserves.

Synonyms

underappreciated, underestimated, underrecognized, undervalued.

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Word Description / Examples
underrated

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.
underappreciated

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.
undervalued

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 someoneโ€™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.
underestimated

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.
underrecognized

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.

Examples of usage

  • He is such an underrated actor, his talent is truly remarkable.
  • This movie is so underrated, it deserves much more recognition.
  • The beauty of this place is underrated by many visitors.
  • She is an underrated artist, her work is truly exceptional.
  • The importance of mental health is often underrated in society.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Many classic films, like 'The Shawshank Redemption', were initially not popular but gained a massive following over time, showcasing how appreciation can grow.
  • In music, certain artists like Nick Drake were often overlooked during their careers but are now celebrated for their genius.

Psychology

  • People often overlook quality in favor of trendy or popular choices, a phenomenon driven by social influence and marketing.
  • Cognitive biases can cause us to dismiss things simply because they are not mainstream or widely recognized.

Literature

  • Literature that is considered 'underrated' often features themes that resonate deeply but are overshadowed by more popular works.
  • Authors like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce were initially criticized but now are celebrated for their innovative styles and contributions.

Art

  • Many influential artists like Van Gogh gained recognition posthumously, highlighting how societal appreciation can change over time.
  • Street art is often underrated but has transformed public spaces and raised awareness on various issues.

Origin of 'underrated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'under' meaning below or lower than, and 'rated' meaning judged or valued.
  • It emerged in the 1940s as a way to describe things that were not received as highly as they deserved.

The word 'underrated' originated in the mid-19th century, combining the prefix 'under-' meaning 'less than' or 'below' with 'rate' meaning 'to estimate the value or worth of something'. The term gained popularity in modern usage to describe something that is not given the recognition or praise it truly deserves, highlighting the disparity between actual value and perceived value.


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

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,712, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.