downplay
verb (used with object)
to treat or speak of (something) so as to reduce emphasis on its importance, value, strength, etc..
had been downplaying
-
past perfect progressiveof downplay.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The third-seeded Nadal had been downplaying expectations of winning his sixth Madrid Open title, and first since 2017.
From Seattle Times ● May 4, 2022
