overstate

verb

over·​state ˌō-vər-ˈstāt How to pronounce overstate (audio)
overstated; overstating; overstates

transitive verb

: to state in too strong terms : exaggerate
overstated his qualifications
overstatement noun

Examples of overstate in a Sentence

It would be overstating the case to say that it was a matter of life or death. it appears you've somewhat overstated your computer skills, if you can't find the “on” button!
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There is reason to believe, however, that the economic benefits of golden visas programs are overstated. Madeline Fitzgerald, Quartz, 3 Mar. 2025 However, the report suggests those hardships were overstated as their parent companies and affiliates were raking in billions. Mark Joseph, Newsweek, 23 Feb. 2025 The initial accounting was overstated by billions of dollars, a review by CBS News found. Dan Ruetenik, CBS News, 19 Feb. 2025 But the numbers thrown out by Musk and the White House are overstated and misrepresent Social Security data. Fatima Hussein, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for overstate

Word History

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of overstate was in 1792

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Cite this Entry

“Overstate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overstate. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

overstate

verb
over·​state -ˈstāt How to pronounce overstate (audio)
: to state in too strong terms : exaggerate
overstatement noun

More from Merriam-Webster on overstate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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