ENGLISH
REFERENCE

exaggeration

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɪɡˌzædʒɝˈeɪʃən// UK //ɛɡzˌædʒəɹˈeɪʃən// ex·ag·ger·a·tion

n. a statement that makes something seem much bigger, better, or worse than it really is. You use it when you want to emphasize a point by stretching the truth.

n. a statement or representation that depicts something as greater, more intense, or more significant than is actually the case.


SIMPLE

It is no exaggeration to say she is the best player.

CONTEXTUAL

The salesman's claim that the car would last forever was a clear exaggeration intended to close the deal.

COMPLEX

While the author relies on stylistic exaggeration to highlight social injustices, the underlying data remains grounded in rigorous historical research.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Latin exaggerātiō.

Usage

Often used in the phrase 'it is no exaggeration to say' or paired with the verb 'to avoid'.

Pitfall

He made an exaggeration about his salary.He exaggerated his salary.While 'exaggeration' is a noun, learners often use it awkwardly with 'make' instead of using the more natural verb form 'exaggerate'.

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