How to Memorize

under/overestimate ability/strength/qualifications

Analysis

When you estimate, you make a guess about an outcome or an amount, based on the information at hand. To underestimate is to guess less than the actual amount, and to overestimate is to guess more than the actual amount. When we underestimate ourselves, we believe that we are capable of less than we really are; and we overestimate ourselves, we believe that we can do more than we really can.

Social Examples (Basic)

1. Don't underestimate your opponents. They may be small, but they're strong!
2. I underestimated my abilities. I was much better at that than I thought I'd be.

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. The company Accountant made the mistake of overestimating the financial returns. The company went bankrupt.
2. I completely overestimated my new employee. He wasn't good enough to do the job at all!

Further Suggestions