Definition

To express something in a way that makes it seem more important or serious than it really is.

Example

He tends to overstate the benefits of his product to attract more customers.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think you might be starting to overstate how much you love that band.

Come on, they're amazing! You can't deny that.

True, but you really need to tone it down a bit.

Alright, maybe I get a little carried away sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overstate → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "stare" (from Latin "stare", meaning to stand). The word means to stand excessively or to exaggerate something beyond its true value.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over' meaning excessively and 'stare' meaning to stand — this helps you remember that to overstate means to exaggerate or present something as more than it is.

Visually Confused Words