"the importance of this cannot be overstated." vs "the importance of this cannot be understated."

Question

"the importance of this cannot be overstated." vs "the importance of this cannot be understated."

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey the idea that something is very important and should not be underestimated. The choice between 'cannot be understated' and 'cannot be overstated' depends on personal preference or the desired emphasis.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used to convey that the importance of something is so great that it should not be exaggerated or overemphasized.

Alternatives:

the importance of this is immense.
the significance of this cannot be exaggerated.
the value of this cannot be overemphasized.
the gravity of this cannot be overstressed.
the impact of this cannot be overestimated.

This phrase is used to convey that the importance of something is so great that it should not be underestimated or downplayed.

Alternatives:

the importance of this is crucial.
the significance of this cannot be underestimated.
the value of this cannot be downplayed.
the gravity of this cannot be minimized.
the impact of this cannot be trivialized.

Answer 1

the importance of this cannot be overstated.

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to emphasize the significance of something.

Answer 2

the importance of this cannot be understated.

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to emphasize the significance of something.

"the importance of this cannot be overstated." vs "the importance of this cannot be understated."

the importance of this cannot be overstated.

the importance of this cannot be understated.

Related Comparisons