downplay Definition
- 1to make something seem less important or less bad than it really is
- 2to minimize the significance of something
Using downplay: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "downplay" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company tried to downplay the negative impact of the new policy.
Example
He downplayed his role in the project's success.
Example
The government is accused of downplaying the severity of the crisis.
Example
She tried to downplay her disappointment at not getting the job.
downplay Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for downplay
- understate
- minimize
- belittle
- play down
- de-emphasize
Antonyms for downplay
Phrases with downplay
to describe something as being less important or significant than it really is
Example
He downplayed the risks as being minimal.
to make something seem less important than it really is
Example
The article downplays the importance of exercise in maintaining good health.
to make something seem less significant than it really is
Example
The government is accused of downplaying the significance of the economic crisis.
Summary: downplay in Brief
'Downplay' [doun-pley] is a verb that means to make something seem less important or less bad than it really is. It is often used in situations where someone wants to minimize the significance of something, such as in politics or public relations. Examples include 'The company tried to downplay the negative impact of the new policy' and 'She tried to downplay her disappointment at not getting the job.'