play down

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.

Rubio, a devout Catholic, sought to play down the rift ahead of the private audience, which will be followed by talks with Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

Managers of KKR sought to play down turmoil engulfing private-markets firms, as the New York firm beat analysts’ quarterly earnings forecasts.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

The SEC opened enforcement investigations into private-credit managers, while industry executives play down systemic risk.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

On Monday, Sir Keir sought to play down any sense of a rift with the civil service when he told MPs: "We have thousands of civil servants who act with integrity and professionalism every day."

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

“Until recently, given the students’ enthusiasm for the reading groups, I was able to play down that data,” she wrote.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove