Word
understated
Phoneticsun·der·stat·ed, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈəndɝˌsteɪtɪd/
UK/ˌʌndəstˈeɪtɪd/
Definition
adj. describes something that is attractive or high-quality but not flashy or loud.
adj. characterized by a deliberate lack of emphasis or decoration; restrained and unpretentious in style.
Examples
“She wore an understated black dress to the party.”
“The hotel's understated elegance makes it a favorite for travelers who dislike flashy luxury.”
“The actor's understated performance allowed the emotional weight of the script to shine through without the need for dramatic outbursts or grand gestures.”
Examples
simple
“She wore an understated black dress to the party.”
contextual
“The hotel's understated elegance makes it a favorite for travelers who dislike flashy luxury.”
complex
“The actor's understated performance allowed the emotional weight of the script to shine through without the need for dramatic outbursts or grand gestures.”
Real-World Examples
“It is definitely understated, given how many riotous bangers the club has had in the past (see the amazing tiger-striped 1992 shirt , among others).” “Dear April was billed as acoustic, but it’s built around jazzy electric guitar and synth washes – understated, but truly beautiful.” Synonyms
Antonyms
- 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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