Understated: meaning, definitions and examples

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understated

[ ˌʌndərˈsteɪtɪd ]

^{Context #1}

style

Presented or expressed in a subtle and effective way, not obvious or showy.

Synonyms

low-key, modest, muted, restrained, subtle

Examples of usage

Her outfit was understated yet elegant.
He had an understated manner that made people feel comfortable around him.

^{Context #2}

communication

To express or represent something in a subtle or modest way.

Synonyms

diminish, downplay, minimize, play down, soft-pedal

Examples of usage

She understated her achievements during the interview.
He tends to understated his influence in the project.

Translations

Translations of the word "understated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discreto

🇮🇳 अल्पकथित

🇩🇪 unscheinbar

🇮🇩 sederhana

🇺🇦 стриманий

🇵🇱 niedoceniony

🇯🇵 控えめな

🇫🇷 sobre

🇪🇸 sencillo

🇹🇷 gösterişsiz

🇰🇷 절제된

🇸🇦 بسيط

🇨🇿 nenápadný

🇸🇰 nenápadný

🇨🇳 低调的

🇸🇮 neopazen

🇮🇸 hófstilltur

🇰🇿 қарапайым

🇬🇪 დამალული

🇦🇿 gözdən qaçan

🇲🇽 sencillo

Word origin

The word 'understated' originated from the verb 'understate', which first appeared in the early 17th century. It combines the prefix 'under-' meaning 'below' or 'less than' with the verb 'state', indicating to express in words. Over time, 'understated' has evolved to describe something subtle, modest, or not exaggerated. The term is commonly used in fashion, design, and communication to convey a sense of sophistication and elegance.