litotes [noun]
Definition of litotes:
understatement for rhetorical effect (especially when expressing an affirmative by negating its contrary)A figure of speech in which understatement is used for rhetorical effect, often by using double negatives.
Sentence/Example of litotes:
Yet this definition fails to explain instances of litotes, or understatement, which is often classified as a kind of irony.
The dessert was not bad at all. (Meaning: It was delicious)
He's not the brightest bulb in the box. (Meaning: He's not intelligent)
She's not unkind. (Meaning: She's kind)
The movie wasn't terrible. (Meaning: It was good)
The hike wasn't too long. (Meaning: It was very long)
It's not uncommon to see deer in the park. (Meaning: It's common to see deer)
I'm not displeased with your work. (Meaning: I'm pleased)
The food was not unpleasant. (Meaning: The food was good)
He's not without talent. (Meaning: He is talented)
The weather isn't too cold. (Meaning: It's quite cold)
She's not unattractive. (Meaning: She's attractive)
The movie wasn't boring. (Meaning: It was interesting)
The hike wasn't difficult. (Meaning: It was easy)
It's not unusual to see him here. (Meaning: It's usual to see him)
I'm not unhappy with your decision. (Meaning: I'm happy)
The food wasn't tasteless. (Meaning: The food was tasty)
He's not a bad singer. (Meaning: He's a good singer)
The weather isn't too hot. (Meaning: It's quite hot)
She's not unattractive. (Meaning: She's attractive)
The movie wasn't boring. (Meaning: It was interesting)
The hike wasn't difficult. (Meaning: It was easy)
It's not unusual to see him here. (Meaning: It's usual to see him)
I'm not unhappy with your decision. (Meaning: I'm happy)
The food wasn't tasteless. (Meaning: The food was tasty)
He's not a bad singer. (Meaning: He's a good singer)