The Opposite(Antonym) of “boast”
The antonyms of boast are downplay and understate. The antonyms downplay and understate convey the opposite meaning of boast, which is to make something seem less important or less significant.
Explore all Antonyms of “boast”
Definitions and Examples of downplay, understate
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To make something seem less important or less significant.
Example
She tried to downplay her achievements during the interview.
To describe something in a way that makes it seem less important or less serious than it really is.
Example
He understated the risks involved in the project.
Key Differences: downplay vs understate
- 1Downplay implies making something seem less important or significant, while understate implies describing something in a way that makes it seem less serious than it really is.
- 2Downplay can be used in situations where one wants to avoid drawing attention to something, while understate can be used to describe something in a way that is intentionally misleading.
Effective Usage of downplay, understate
- 1In conversations: Use downplay and understate to express humility and modesty.
- 2In writing: Utilize these antonyms to create contrast and emphasize the importance of certain ideas.
- 3In interviews: Use downplay and understate to avoid sounding arrogant or boastful.
Remember this!
The antonyms downplay and understate convey the opposite meaning of boast. Use downplay to make something seem less important or significant, and understate to describe something in a way that makes it seem less serious than it really is. These words can be used to express humility and modesty, create contrast, and avoid sounding arrogant or boastful.
