Understatement is a rhetorical device used to intentionally downplay the significance or intensity of a situation, emotion, or event. It often involves presenting something as less important or severe than it actually is, which can create a humorous or ironic effect. For example, saying "It's just a scratch" when referring to a large dent in a car can illustrate this technique. This device is commonly found in literature, speeches, and everyday conversation. Famous authors like Jane Austen and Mark Twain frequently employed understatement to enhance their storytelling. By minimizing the impact of certain elements, they invite readers to engage more deeply with the underlying themes.