downplay (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /daʊnˈpleɪ/

Definition

To make something seem less important or serious than it really is.

Examples

• She tried to downplay her role in the project's success.

• The company's statement seemed to downplay the risks involved.

• He downplayed the criticism, focusing instead on his achievements.

How to Use downplay

downplay something (prepositional phrase)

To make a particular thing seem less important or serious. — "She tried to downplay her role in the project's success."

Synonyms of downplay

Words with a similar meaning to downplay:

• minimize
• understate
• belittle
• discount

Antonyms of downplay

Words with the opposite meaning to downplay:

• emphasize
• exaggerate
• highlight

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