
Downplay
Understated Tone
Use 'downplay' for conveying a softer or less alarming tone about issues that might be significant.

They downplayed the financial losses to avoid panic among investors.
Potentially Negative
'Downplay' often hints the speaker might be intentionally misleading or hiding the full truth.

The politician downplayed his role in the scandal, which made the public suspicious.
Subjectivity Involved
The use of 'downplay' suggests a subjective perspective; what is downplayed may indeed be important.

She downplayed her achievements, but everyone knew she was essential to the project's success.
Compare with
BelittleDepreciateDiminishDisparageMinimizePlay downUnderstateUndervalue
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension