# exaggerated

/ɪɡˈzædʒɝˌeɪtəd/ (US) · /ɛɡzˈædʒəɹˌeɪtɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exaggerated
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. overstated

adjective · CEFR B2

described as being larger, better, or worse than it actually is.

For teachers: representing something as greater than its actual size, intensity, or importance.

- The newspaper gave an exaggerated account of the small argument between the neighbors.
- The witness provided an exaggerated description of the suspect's height, which initially led the investigators to look for a much taller individual.

### 2. physically enlarged

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

larger or more noticeable than what is normal or natural.

For teachers: abnormally increased in size or volume; often used to describe physical features or artistic depictions.

- The cartoon character had an exaggerated nose and tiny feet.
- The sculpture featured exaggerated proportions to ensure that the figure remained visible and imposing from the ground level.

### 3. past action of overstating

verb · CEFR B2

the past tense of making something seem more important or larger than it was.

For teachers: the simple past and past participle form of the transitive verb 'exaggerate'.

- He exaggerated his work experience on his resume to get the job.
- The explorer exaggerated the dangers of the jungle in his journals to ensure his sponsors felt their investment was justified.

Usage: As a verb, it requires a direct object representing the thing being overstated.

## Examples

- The actor used exaggerated movements to show his anger.
- The newspaper was accused of using exaggerated headlines to sell more copies during the election.
- While the core facts of the memoir were true, the author admitted to including exaggerated descriptions of his childhood hardships to create a more compelling narrative arc for the reader.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.