Exaggerate

Definition

Exaggerate means to represent something as being larger, better, or worse than it really is. It involves overstating or amplifying the truth or reality of a situation or fact.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzædʒəˌreɪt/
• Respelling: ig-ZAJ-uh-rayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzædʒəˌreɪt/
• Respelling: ig-ZAJ-uh-rayt

The pronunciation of "exaggerate" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "exaggerate" is derived from the Latin word "exaggerare," which means "to heap up" or "to accumulate." It is formed by combining "ex-" meaning "out" or "thoroughly" and "aggerare," meaning "to heap up" or "to pile."

Derivatives

• Exaggeration (noun)
• Exaggerated (adjective)
• Exaggerative (adjective)
• Exaggerator (noun)
• Overexaggerate (verb)

Synonyms

• Overstate
• Amplify
• Embellish

Antonyms

• Understate
• Minimize
• Downplay

Usage

The word "exaggerate" is commonly used in contexts where a person is accused of making something appear more significant or dramatic than it truly is. It can apply to both positive and negative exaggerations and is often used in informal as well as formal language.

Related Terms

• Hyperbole: Deliberate and obvious exaggeration used for effect.
• Overstatement: The act of expressing or stating something too strongly.
• Inflate: To increase or amplify something beyond its normal or proper level.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To represent something as greater than it really is: Amplifying the truth or reality of a situation or fact.
  • Example: "He tends to exaggerate his achievements."
• To overstate the importance or impact of something: Making something seem more significant or dramatic than it is.
  • Example: "The media often exaggerates the risks associated with new technologies."