C1verb 2K

Exaggerate

🇬🇧 UK //ɪɡˈzædʒəreɪt// 🇺🇸 US //ɪɡˈzædʒəreɪt//

Meaning of Exaggerate

To make something seem larger, more important, or more extreme than it really is.

In simple words: To make something seem bigger or more important than it is.

Exaggerate in a sentence

• He tends to exaggerate his accomplishments during job interviews.
• She exaggerated the risks of the project, causing unnecessary panic.
• When he tells stories, he often exaggerates the details for comedic effect.
• It’s easy to exaggerate when you're trying to impress your friends.
• In advertising, companies might exaggerate the benefits of their products.
• Her reaction to the news was so strong it made me think she was exaggerating.
• Don't exaggerate the situation; it’s not as bad as it seems.
• He often exaggerates when talking about his childhood adventures.

How to use Exaggerate

Use 'exaggerate' in contexts where you want to emphasize an overstated truth, but avoid it in formal reports or academic writing.

Grammar pattern

exaggerate + object

Memory hint

Think of 'egg-zagger-ate' – imagine an egg being blown up to huge proportions!

Related words

Collocations with Exaggerate

• exaggerate a story
• exaggerate the truth
• exaggerate for effect
• exaggerate a feeling

Synonyms for Exaggerate

• overstate
• magnify
• embellish
• inflate
• amplify

Opposites of Exaggerate

• understate
• minimize

Common mistakes with Exaggerate

• Confused with 'aggravate', meaning to make worse.
• Using it in a context where precision is important.
• Mixing up with 'exaggeration', its noun form.

Frequently asked questions about Exaggerate

What does Exaggerate mean?

To make something seem bigger or more important than it is.

What is the definition of Exaggerate?

To make something seem larger, more important, or more extreme than it really is.

How do you use Exaggerate in a sentence?

He tends to exaggerate his accomplishments during job interviews.

Can you give another example of Exaggerate?

She exaggerated the risks of the project, causing unnecessary panic.

What are synonyms for Exaggerate?

Common alternatives include overstate, magnify, embellish, inflate, amplify.

What is the opposite of Exaggerate?

Opposite meanings include understate, minimize.

What words go with Exaggerate?

It commonly pairs with exaggerate a story, exaggerate the truth, exaggerate for effect, exaggerate a feeling.

What are common mistakes when using Exaggerate?

Confused with 'aggravate', meaning to make worse. Using it in a context where precision is important. Mixing up with 'exaggeration', its noun form.

How do you pronounce Exaggerate?

US: //ɪɡˈzædʒəreɪt//, UK: //ɪɡˈzædʒəreɪt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Exaggerate?

Use 'exaggerate' in contexts where you want to emphasize an overstated truth, but avoid it in formal reports or academic writing.

What CEFR level is Exaggerate?

"Exaggerate" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.