Idiom

That's putting it mildly.

interjection C1

/ðæts ˈpʊtɪŋ ɪt ˈmaɪldli/

Used to state that a previous remark or description was a significant understatement.

Meanings

interjection

Used as a response to indicate that the preceding statement was a considerable understatement, implying the true situation is far more intense, problematic, or impressive than described.

Definition

This idiom emphasizes that a prior statement was an understatement, meaning the actual situation is far more extreme, serious, or impactful than described. It implies that the speaker could use much stronger or more accurate words but is choosing to be polite or concise. People often use it to express strong agreement or to highlight the severity (or occasionally magnitude) of a situation that has been inadequately characterized.

Examples

"The project encountered a few minor issues," Mark said. "A few minor issues? That's putting it mildly; the entire system crashed for three days!"
"My presentation didn't go as well as I hoped," Sarah confessed. "Didn't go well? That's putting it mildly; the projector stopped working, and you tripped on the stage!"
"The new policy has generated some discussion," the spokesperson stated. "Some discussion? That's putting it mildly; the entire workforce is on the verge of striking!"
"They mentioned the storm caused a little damage," he remarked. "A little damage? That's putting it mildly; half the town lost power for a week."
"My boss said he was a bit disappointed with my performance review," Emily sighed. "A bit disappointed? That's putting it mildly; he basically threatened to fire you!"

Common mistake

The most common mistake is using it when the preceding statement was not an understatement, or failing to follow it with a more accurate, stronger description of the situation.

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Real-Life Conversation Section: Reacting Naturally