as in downplays
to reduce in apparent importance
she politely tries to soft-pedal her accomplishments when talking to less fortunate people
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for soft pedals
Verb
-
Continue reading … BASELESS ACCUSATIONS – Jasmine Crockett likens ICE to 'slave patrols,' downplays migrant crime.—
,
FOXNews.com,
15 Sep. 2025 -
Critics argue this approach lacks clarity and downplays the importance of protecting vulnerable populations.—
Amanda Castro,
MSNBC Newsweek,
19 Aug. 2025
Verb
-
This holistic process minimizes delays, prevents budget overruns, and produces outcomes that meet aesthetic, regulatory, and performance goals.—
Nia Bowers,
USA Today,
12 Sep. 2025
-
Our first responsibility is to honor our commitments and wind down in a way that minimizes harm from the rescission.—
Michael Schneider,
Variety,
12 Sep. 2025
Verb
-
Judge dismisses case against 'fake electors' in Michigan Congress to hear more about UFOs.—
Rebecca Morin,
USA Today,
9 Sep. 2025
-
Ashton also dismisses the concerns that a three-year degree lacks the many electives and opportunities for self-discovery.—
Bryan Penprase,
Forbes.com,
26 Aug. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Cite this Entry
“Soft pedals.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/soft%20pedals. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share