Word Finder
What's the word for deliberately making something seem less important than it is?
The word you're looking for
To downplay something is to make it seem less important, serious, or bad than it really is. It fits your concept because the action is deliberate and often used in speech, writing, or politics.
Other words that fit
Use this when you want a slightly more formal word for making an issue seem smaller or less serious.
Use this when the speaker says something in a weaker way than the truth.
Use this common phrasal verb in everyday English when someone tries to reduce attention or concern.
Use this when someone makes a serious matter seem unimportant in a careless or offensive way.
Why this word
The best word for this idea is usually downplay. It means to present something as less important, serious, or noticeable than it really is. People often use it when talking about news, problems, risks, or achievements. Do not confuse it with understate, which means saying less than the full truth, often without the idea of hiding importance. If the meaning is stronger and more negative, trivialize may fit better.
In context
- She tried to downplay the mistake.
- The company downplayed the safety issue.
- He downplayed his role in the project.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is downplay formal or informal?
- It is common in both speaking and writing. It feels neutral, not very formal.
- What is the difference between downplay and minimize?
- Downplay is the more natural everyday word. Minimize is a bit more formal and can sound more deliberate.
- Can I say play down instead of downplay?
- Yes. Play down is the phrasal verb form, and it means the same thing.
- Is trivialize the same as downplay?
- Not exactly. Trivialize usually means making something seem unimportant in a bad or dismissive way.