downplay
verb (used with object)
to treat or speak of (something) so as to reduce emphasis on its importance, value, strength, etc..
was downplaying
-
past progressiveof downplay.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Asked if he was downplaying their concerns, he said: "No, we are not downplaying, but you know it's going to be more good than bad by a lot."
From Barron's ● Sep. 14, 2026
His fiery denunciations sparked criticism that the president was downplaying the gravity of the disaster.
From Reuters ● Oct. 30, 2023
Either he was downplaying what was to come, or he’s genuinely surprised at how seamless the transition has looked thus far — or both.
From Washington Times ● Dec. 1, 2022
Reeves was downplaying his state’s record when he said it had not “spent a lot of time” on helping mothers and families.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 11, 2022
They instead released a statemen admitting Rafiq was "the victim of inappropriate behaviour" - something he said was downplaying racism - and offered him their "profound apologies".
From BBC ● Jan. 13, 2022
