Downplaying: meaning, definitions and examples
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downplaying
[ ˈdaʊnˌpleɪɪŋ ]
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.
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
Etymology
The term 'downplay' emerged in the English language in the mid-20th century. The word 'play' has origins in Old English 'plega', meaning 'exercise' or 'game'. The prefix 'down-' modifies the verb to suggest a reduction or diminishment in elevation or importance. This construction aligns with the broader linguistic trend of using 'down-' to imply a lowering action or state. As language evolved, 'downplaying' began to encapsulate the act of consciously trivializing or softening the impact of an idea or event, especially in social and political discourse. With increasing media scrutiny and public relations strategies becoming more pronounced, the usage of 'downplaying' has proliferated in modern communication, particularly when individuals or organizations aim to navigate challenging narratives.