understated

/ˌʌndəˈsteɪtɪd/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌʌndərˈsteɪtɪd/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌən-dər-ˈstā-təd/ (ame, mw)

understated — 形容詞

  • understatedpositive
  • more understatedcomparative
  • most understatedsuperlative

1. deliberately simple or subtle in a way that creates an elegant, tasteful impress

1.形容詞B2
釋義

低調；簡約

風格含蓄素雅、不張揚的

deliberately simple or subtle in a way that creates an elegant, tasteful impression

例句

Mei chose an understated grey dress for the interview instead of something flashy.

Mei 為了面試選了一件低調的灰色洋裝，而不是花俏的款式。

understated + clothing noun (dress, suit, outfit)

The restaurant's understated decor — plain wooden tables and soft lighting — made diners feel at ease.

這家餐廳的低調裝潢——樸素的木桌和柔和的燈光——讓客人感到自在。

同義詞
  • subtle

    focuses on being not immediately obvious; 'subtle' can apply to flavors, smells, or ideas, while 'understated' is more about visual/style choices

  • restrained

    similar meaning but implies conscious self-control; 'restrained' is more formal and often used in art or writing reviews

  • low-key

    informal and often describes events or personalities, not just design; 'a low-key party' but less common for 'an understated party'

  • minimalist

    a specific design philosophy of extreme simplicity; 'understated' does not require minimalism — something can be simple but warm

反義詞
  • flashy

    attracts attention through bright colors or bold design, opposite of subtle restraint

  • showy

    deliberately tries to impress others, often in a way that feels too obvious

  • ostentatious

    formal term for showing off wealth or status in an obvious, exaggerated way

用法筆記

Often used to describe deliberate choices in clothing, interior design, makeup, or writing style where simplicity creates a sophisticated impression rather than a plain one.

常見錯誤

❌His speech was understated' (meaning it was boring or too quiet).
✅His speech was understated but powerful.
💡'understated' has a positive connotation of elegant restraint, not simply 'not loud' or 'lacking energy.'