Emphasising intensity or reality beyond what has been said.

To signal that the described situation goes well beyond ordinary expectations.

When describing experiences with strong emotions (e.g., pain, awe), reviews praising a product/service, or any context where over‑emphasis is needed.

Conversational settings, semi-formal writing such as blog posts, emails to friends/colleagues; not formal academic prose.

to say the least

to say the least

none

• expensive
• complicated
• terrible
• lengthy
• costly

• "To put it mildly" or similar understatement phrases.

Using the phrase as a synonym for “in summary” rather than an intensifier.

"To put it mildly", "That’s an understatement."

May be misinterpreted literally by learners unfamiliar with English idioms.

• understatement/intensifying frames

Conveys that there exists even stronger language (e.g., ‘absolutely horrendous’) which is not being used here.

Intensifies meaning without overtly stating more extreme adjectives, preserving politeness or modesty.

to say the least

This phrase is used to emphasize that the situation or condition described is even more extreme than what has been stated, often implying stronger but unstated feelings or facts. It's a common understatement in English, used to avoid sounding overly critical or dramatic. The phrase is typically placed at the end of a sentence or clause, but can sometimes be fronted for added emphasis. Learners should be aware that this is an idiomatic expression and should not be taken literally.

to put it mildly