sell (someone, something, or oneself) short
To undervalue someone, something, or oneself; to underestimate or underappreciate the good qualities of someone, something, or oneself. Often used in negative constructions. Don't sell yourself short—your writing is really excellent! I know you don't like their pitcher, but you shouldn't sell him short. He's actually got some of the best stats in the league. I think they're selling this short. It's actually an incredibly good deal!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
sell someone or something short
Fig. to underestimate someone or something; to fail to see the good qualities of someone or something. This is a very good restaurant. Don't sell it short. When you say that John isn't interested in music, you're selling him short. Did you know he plays the violin quite well?
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
sell short
1. Contract for the sale of securities or commodities one expects to own at a later date and at a lower price, as in Selling short runs the risk of a market rise, forcing one to pay more than one expected. [Mid-1800s]
2. sell someone short. Underestimate the true value or worth of someone, as in Don't sell her short; she's a very able lawyer. [First half of 1900s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
sell yourself/somebody/something ˈshort
describe yourself/somebody/something as being less good, valuable, etc. than you, etc. really are: Don’t sell yourself short when you go for an interview. ♢ It was a great idea, but you sold it short.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
sell short
1. To contract for the sale of securities or commodities one expects to own at a later date and at more advantageous terms.
2. To underestimate the true value or worth of: Don't sell your colleague short; she's a smart lawyer.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.