downplay

[doun-pley]

verb (used with object)

1. to treat or speak of (something) so as to reduce emphasis on its importance, value, strength, etc..

   The press has downplayed the president's role in the negotiations.

downplay

/ ˈdaʊnˌpleɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to play down; make little of

Word History and Origins

Origin of downplay¹

1950–55; down ¹ + play, from verb phrase play down

Example Sentences

They certainly recognized this, which is why Phillies manager Rob Thomson made no effort to downplay the importance of Game 2.

From Los Angeles Times

King’s critiques of capitalism, militarism and structural racism are often downplayed in most mainstream remembrances, leaving behind a softer image of peaceful dreamer.

From Salon

Authorities downplayed this, saying her occasional calls to agents and local police officers were unsolicited.

From Los Angeles Times

But Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna later downplayed his department’s role, saying firefighters typically take the lead because they are “the experts” in such situations.

From Los Angeles Times

The Malian army initially downplayed the blockade, with spokesman Col Souleymane Dembélé dismissing reports of a siege as an "information war orchestrated by foreign media".

From BBC

Related Words

• lessen 
• play down 
• soften