Downplaying: meaning, definitions and examples
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downplaying
[ˈdaʊnˌpleɪɪŋ ]
Definition
dismissive attitude
Downplaying refers to the act of minimizing or reducing the significance of something, often to make it seem less important than it actually is. This can involve understating facts, emotions, or outcomes in order to influence perception. It is commonly used in discussions where someone wants to avoid attention or criticism. In many cases, downplaying can be a strategic move to deflect negative perceptions or to maintain a more favorable public image.
Synonyms
belittle, diminish, disparage, minimize, understate.
Examples of usage
- She was downplaying her role in the project.
- He downplayed the severity of the situation.
- The company is downplaying the impact of the scandal.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word combines 'down,' which means to lower, and 'play,' indicating to treat casually.
- The concept first gained traction in English around the 20th century, often in psychological contexts.
Psychology
- Downplaying can be a defense mechanism, helping individuals cope with stress by minimizing perceived threats.
- In social situations, people often downplay their achievements to appear humble and avoid seeming boastful.
Communication
- In media, downplaying can affect public perception, as stories might be softened to reduce panic or criticism.
- Politicians sometimes downplay negative reports to manage their image and retain public support.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters may downplay their fears to seem brave, making for more engaging storytelling.
- Social media influencers may downplay their challenges, creating a filtered portrayal of their lives.
Literature
- Authors often use downplaying through irony, where characters may not recognize the seriousness of their situations.
- Classic literature uses downplaying to build tension, where a character's light-hearted comments mask deeper issues.
Translations
Translations of the word "downplaying" in other languages:
🇵🇹 minimização
🇮🇳 कम करना
🇩🇪 herunterspielen
🇮🇩 mengurangi
🇺🇦 зменшення
🇵🇱 bagatelizowanie
🇯🇵 過小評価
🇫🇷 minimisation
🇪🇸 minimización
🇹🇷 küçümseme
🇰🇷 과소평가
🇸🇦 التقليل من
🇨🇿 zmenšování
🇸🇰 bagatelizovanie
🇨🇳 贬低
🇸🇮 minimizacija
🇮🇸 minnka
🇰🇿 азайту
🇬🇪 მცირედობა
🇦🇿 kiçiltmə
🇲🇽 minimización