BusinessSeptember 4, 2026

underpromising

UN-der-prom-iss-ing

Definition

The act of deliberately setting lower expectations for an outcome or project to ensure that the actual results exceed those expectations.

Etymology

Formed by the combination of the prefix 'under-' (meaning less than or below) and the present participle of 'promise,' which originates from the Latin 'promittere' meaning to send forth or pledge.

In the news

Anseel describes Hong Kong's workplace culture as one of 'underpromising and overdelivering,' highlighting a pragmatic, results-oriented approach to business.

Belgian scholar seeks to ‘be part of China’s AI boom’

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chinadailyhk

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