understatement

Definitions

The presentation of something as being smaller, worse, or less important than it actually is.

A statement that expresses a fact less strongly than the evidence warrants, often used for ironic effect.

Examples

To say that the team was disappointed after losing the championship would be a massive understatement.

Calling the view from the mountain top 'nice' is a complete understatement, as it was truly breathtaking.

It is an understatement to describe the current economic situation as challenging.

Synonyms

minimization downplaying mutedness restraint soft-pedaling underplaying subtlety

Antonyms

exaggeration hyperbole overstatement amplification magnification embellishment overemphasis