downplayed

VERB

minimize

Synonyms

STRONGEST

lessen play down soften

STRONG

devalue whitewash

WEAK

attach little importance to deemphasize give little weight to make light of think nothing of

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.

One word I did not hear at the party, and a topic that Pratt has downplayed on the trail, is rent.

From Slate • Jun. 3, 2026

Later, while the public was somewhat aware that President Franklin D Roosevelt lived with paralysis from polio, the White House downplayed his use of a wheelchair until his death in office in 1945.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

The same week both citizens were held, administration officials spoke on a panel at a border security conference in Phoenix and downplayed and denied that citizens have been mistakenly detained.

From Salon • May 24, 2026

Pratt has downplayed his party affiliation, pointing out that the mayor’s race is nonpartisan.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

Although Paris downplayed how close they came to being caught by the security guards.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti