understatement def

An understatement is a figure of speech in which a situation, event, or characteristic is presented as less important, significant, or severe than it actually is. It often has the effect of creating irony or humor. For example, if someone says, "It's just a little rain," during a heavy storm, they are using understatement to downplay the severity of the weather. The device can be used for various purposes, including emphasizing a point or conveying sarcasm.