Differences between close down and play down
Close down means to shut or stop the operation of a business, organization, or event. Play down means to make something seem less important or serious than it really is.
Meanings and Definitions: close down vs play down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Close down
- 1Close a shop, branch or business. permanently.
The banks have CLOSED DOWN a lot of branches in villages over the last few years.
- 2Stop an opponent being a challenge.
He CLOSED the player DOWN and stopped him being a threat.
Play down
- 1Try to make something seem less important.
The Government has tried to PLAY DOWN the importance of the minister's resignation.
Usage Examples: close down, play down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
close down
Example
Many small businesses had to close down during the pandemic.
Example
The store closes down at the end of the month.
play down
Example
They tried to play down the seriousness of the situation.
Example
She plays down her achievements to avoid seeming boastful.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close down
cease operations
To stop or discontinue the activities of a business, organization, or event.
Example
The restaurant had to cease operations during the pandemic lockdown.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play down
To make something seem less important or serious than it really is.
Example
The politician tried to downplay the scandal by saying it was just a minor issue.
To reduce or make something seem less significant or important.
Example
The coach tried to minimize the team's loss by focusing on their strengths and improvement areas.
Differences in close down vs play down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: close down or play down?
In everyday conversation, play down is more common than close down. This is because we often use play down to minimize negative situations or to avoid conflict. Close down is not used as frequently in daily conversations unless someone is talking about a specific business or event that has closed.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of close down and play down
Close down and play down are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, close down may be used in more formal settings such as business meetings or news reports.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of close down and play down
The tone of close down is usually serious or sad, especially when referring to a business or event. On the other hand, play down has a more casual and relaxed tone, often used to downplay a situation or to make light of something.
close down & play down: Synonyms and Antonyms
Close down
Synonyms
- discontinue
- end
- stop
- close
- shut down
- cease operations
- terminate
