Word
overstated
Phoneticsover·stat·ed
US/ˈoʊvɝˌsteɪtɪd/
UK/ˌəʊvəstˈeɪtɪd/
Definition
v. to describe something as being more important or bigger than it really is. You use this when someone makes a claim that is too strong or exaggerated.
v. to represent something as being more significant, intense, or extensive than it actually is. Often used in critical contexts to describe claims or descriptions that lack accuracy.
Examples
“The report overstated the benefits of the new policy.”
“The marketing team was accused of overstating the product's capabilities to attract more customers.”
“While the initial findings suggested a significant decline in the population, subsequent data revealed that the results had been overstated by the researchers' flawed methodology.”
Examples
simple
“The report overstated the benefits of the new policy.”
contextual
“The marketing team was accused of overstating the product's capabilities to attract more customers.”
complex
“While the initial findings suggested a significant decline in the population, subsequent data revealed that the results had been overstated by the researchers' flawed methodology.”
Real-World Examples
“Fears that they may have lost their appetite having ended their 22-year wait for the title may have been overstated (although much, much tougher tests await).” “Your report ( 5 August ) refers to the Guardian’s own investigation, with revelations that this professor may have inflated his running achievements and overstated threats to his personal safety.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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