A question about 'underestimate'
Let's say, Luke took an exam and he finished the exam in 15 min.
I had supposed he would have needed at least 30 min.
Here is the question.
Can I say that 'I underestimated how long it would take for him to finish the exam'?
Or, should I say 'I overestimated'?
Confusing since I underestimated his ability but my estimation(30 min) was not under 15 min.
Search from various English teachers...
Answers · 6
4
Good question. You overestimated the time it would take him to finish. But you underestimated how quickly he would finish. Does that make sense? Let me know if not.
0
The way I would think about it is this:
If you estimate a time that is too BIG; you OVERestimate, (think OVER weight - too big).
If you estimate a time that is too small; you UNDERestimate, UNDER weight- too small).
Hope that helps.
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