verb , noun
■ verb / ˌʌndərˈestɪmeɪt; NAmE /
1.
to think or guess that the amount, cost or size of sth is smaller than it really is :
[ vn ]
to underestimate the cost of the project
We underestimated the time it would take to get there.
[also v wh- ]
2.
[ vn ] to not realize how good, strong, determined, etc. sb really is :
Never underestimate your opponent.
OPP overestimate
—compare underrate
■ noun
/ ˌʌndərˈestɪmət/ (also under·esti·ma·tion / ˌʌndərˌestɪˈmeɪʃn; NAmE / [ C , U ]) an estimate about the size, cost, etc. of sth that is too low :
My guess of 400 proved to be a serious underestimate.
OPP overestimate