downplaying

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.

Rama has pivoted between downplaying the protesters as misinformed and dismissing the movement as foreign-backed.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

“Maybe I’m just downplaying us a little bit too much in that.”

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026

Blanche described Allen as a serious threat, while also downplaying his proximity to the president and the likelihood that he ever could have caused harm to administration officials.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

While not downplaying the risks, Rice University’s Medlock pointed out that pipelines can be fixed relatively quickly.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

He keeps his face neutral, downplaying his feelings for my benefit.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon