People are prone to confuse the usage of underestimate and overestimate. For example, today I heard an interview on the wireless with the charming and peace-loving* former US ambassador to the UN, John Bolton. Discussing the Iranian seizure of British sailors he said that "...it is impossible to underestimate the importance of their [the sailors'] mission."
Well, call me a pedant, but this man is listened to by those in charge of America's foreign policy. If you're going to invade another country you want to be very clear whether the repercussions have been under- or overestimated.
*Hard to believe, but Bolton really was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, in 2006; almost as ironic as Kissinger's award of the prize in 1973.
About Me
- Andy Bridle
- Wales, United Kingdom
- In the words of Manu Chao: "Me gusta la moto, me gustas tú. Me gusta correr, me gustas tú. Me gusta la lluvia, me gustas tú. Me gusta volver, me gustas tú. Me gusta marihuana, me gustas tú. Me gusta colombiana, me gustas tú. Me gusta la montaña, me gustas tú. Me gusta la noche, me gustas tú."
Calabash Music
