The grammarian term of 'Meiosis'?

Question

Would you deem meiosis (understatement for rethorical effect; not meiosis in Biology) to be a part of the British character; an English trait, so to speak? If, standing on a mountain, overlooking a magnificent scenery, you say: 'Not bad, eh?'...meaning wonderful and great. Why do you think this is?

Answer 1

Being originally from Britain I would have to say yes. At least it was in my time (I'm 60). We were taught to understate things rather than overstate them (not by parents, but by the society of the day).