overestimate

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌoʊvərˈɛstəˌmeɪt/

KK: /oʊvərˈɛstəˌmeɪt/

transitive verb

Definition

To judge or calculate something as being more than it actually is.

Example

Many people overestimate their ability to complete the project on time.

Tense Forms

Past: overestimated

Past Participle: overestimated

Conversation

I think people often overestimate how much time they need to prepare for exams.

That's true! I always end up studying more than I thought I would.

Right? It's almost like we build it up in our heads.

Exactly, and then it turns out to be manageable after all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

exaggerate

inflate

magnify

Antonyms

underestimate

diminish

minimize

Root Explanation

Overestimate → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "estimate" (from Latin "aestimare", meaning to value or assess). The word "overestimate" means to assess something as greater than it actually is, or to value it excessively.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over-' meaning excessively, and 'estimate' meaning to value. This helps you remember that to overestimate means to value something too highly.

Visually Confused Words