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.

See Examples For:

downplaying

But there have been instances of official sources, including government-controlled media, deliberately downplaying disasters, which has led to some public mistrust in this area.

From BBC ● Jul. 27, 2026

However, he warned that the telecommunications industry is still downplaying the risk from satellite competitors, which in his view is a mistake.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 23, 2026

At the same time, environmental groups are accusing Lineage representatives and emergency responders of downplaying the risks pose by chemicals released during the fire.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 14, 2026

“I think people are downplaying the significance of Nimbyism in this country right now,” Purohit said, adding that companies looking to sell this summer will be scrutinized for how they plan to handle it.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

Media accounts persistently bright-side the situation, highlighting the occasional success stories and downplaying the acknowledged increase in hunger.

From "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" by Barbara Ehrenreich