Differences between play down and play up
Play down means to make something seem less important or serious than it really is, while play up means to emphasize or promote something to make it seem more important or impressive.
Meanings and Definitions: play down vs play up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Play down
- 1Try to make something seem less important.
The Government has tried to PLAY DOWN the importance of the minister's resignation.
Play up
- 1Behave badly.
The children PLAYED UP all evening and drove the babysitter mad.
Usage Examples: play down, play up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
play down
Example
They tried to play down the seriousness of the situation.
Example
She plays down her achievements to avoid seeming boastful.
play up
Example
The children play up when they are tired.
Example
He plays up when he doesn't get his way.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play down
To make something seem less important or significant than it really is.
Example
The company tried to minimize the impact of the data breach by downplaying the number of affected users.
To make something seem less important or significant than it really is.
Example
The politician tried to downplay the controversy surrounding his past comments by saying they were taken out of context.
To describe something as less important or serious than it really is.
Example
The CEO tried to understate the company's financial losses during the earnings call to avoid causing panic among investors.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play up
To give special importance or attention to something.
Example
The marketing team tried to emphasize the unique features of the new product to attract more customers.
To draw attention to something and make it more noticeable or prominent.
Example
The article highlighted the benefits of regular exercise for mental health.
To advertise or publicize something to increase its popularity or sales.
Example
The company hired a celebrity spokesperson to promote their new line of skincare products.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “play”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in play down vs play up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: play down or play up?
Both play down and play up are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, play up is more frequently used in marketing and advertising contexts, while play down is often used in news reporting or when discussing negative events.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of play down and play up
Both play down and play up are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of play down and play up
The tone of play down and play up can differ based on context. Play down often carries a dismissive or understated tone, while play up typically has an enthusiastic or persuasive tone.
