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Synonyms
Examples of play down in a Sentence
out of sheer envy, she would always play down her sister's accomplishments
if you play down your part in the project, you won't get the credit you deserve
Recent Examples on the Web
In the past, that would be a trap game for the Lakers, who have a recent history of playing down to their competition.
—Jovan Buha, The Athletic, 6 Jan. 2025
What began as a strained attempt to absolve Mr. Trump of responsibility for Jan. 6 gradually took hold, as his allies in Congress and the media played down the attack and redirected blame to left-wing plants, Democrats and even the government.
—Dan Barry, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2025
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov played down the damage last week, saying that while Russia had expended significant effort in stabilizing Syria in the past, its current priority lies with the conflict in Ukraine.
—Marin Scott, NBC News, 14 Dec. 2024
But Macron's office nonetheless played down the significance of the invitation, saying other politicians not now in office had been invited as well.
—Sylvie Corbet, arkansasonline.com, 8 Dec. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1930, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near play down
Cite this Entry
“Play down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play%20down. Accessed 10 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
play down
verb
: to attach little importance to : minimize
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