downplay

American  

[doun-pley] / ˈdaʊnˌpleɪ /

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.

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downplay British  

/ ˈdaʊnˌpleɪ /

verb

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

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Etymology

Origin of downplay

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

Example Sentences

Powell also downplayed the prospect of a rate hike at the news conference.

From The Wall Street Journal

However, there is some doubt about this possible reduction, with the country’s Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent downplaying any potential rollback, they add.

From The Wall Street Journal

The danger in examining such results is to downplay Scotland's contribution to the final result.

From Barron's

Bass, for her part, has downplayed any hard feelings, saying she intends to run on her record — including her collaboration with Raman.

From Los Angeles Times

True, Matthew Robinson’s funny, savage and surprising script doesn’t downplay its inspirations.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• lessen
• play down
• soften