What are examples of an understatement?

Answer 1

Einstein wasn't an idiot.

Bill Gates has saved for retirement.

George Bush is a moron

But this last sentence is not actually an understatement. An understatement would be:

George Bush is no great speaker.

or

George Bush is not very bright.

Answer 2

If someone donates $10 to charity and someone makes a comment like "he/she is the most generous person in the world" Someone else in the world has obviously donated more than $10 to charity before.

Answer 3

An understatement is something that is phrased in a way that downplays the reality of the situation. An example of an understatement would be saying that Hitler was not the best person or that Nelson Mandela was somewhat influential in South Africa.

Answer 4

"Overstatement" basically means to exaggerate something, or say that something is greater than it actually is; give something too much credit. Understatement is the opposite; not giving enough credit.

Example of understatement: "He performed okay." when talking about someone who performed excellently, hence the usual response "That's an understatement!"

Example of overstatement: "He is an incredible artist." when talking about someone who is an average artist at best, hence the usual, yet rude response "That's an overstatement!"

Answer 5

hyperbole

Answer 6

My aunt was slightly annoyed when I dropped her wedding cake on the floor