underrun
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌʌndəˈrʌn/
KK: /ʌndərˌrʌn/
noun
Definition
A quantity or amount that is less than what was expected or estimated.
Example
The project faced an underrun in budget, leading to unexpected financial issues.
Conversation
Did you hear about the project's underrun?
Yeah, I saw the report; it was surprising to see how much less we produced.
I wonder how that will affect our budget in the long run.
Hopefully, it won't cause too many issues, but we should keep an eye on it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deficit
shortfall
undercurrent
Antonyms
surplus
excess
abundance
transitive verb
Definition
To run or pass beneath something, often used in a nautical context to refer to hauling a line or cable onto a boat for inspection or repair.
Example
The crew had to underrun the cable to check for any damage before setting sail.
Tense Forms
Past: underran
Past Participle: underrun
Conversation
Did you see how they had to underrun the cable to fix the boat?
Yeah, it was a bit of a hassle, but they managed it well.
I can't believe how quickly they underrun everything while we just waited.
Root Explanation
Underrun is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath or below) and "run" (meaning to move swiftly or flow). The word describes the action of flowing or moving beneath something, often used in contexts like water flowing under a bridge.
Memory Tip
Think of something moving 'beneath' ('under-') while 'flowing' or 'moving swiftly' ('run') — that's what underrun means.
Visually Confused Words
undrunk