To make something seem less important, serious, or significant than it really is.
To act like something is not very important or serious when it actually is.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To make something seem less important or serious than it actually is, often deliberately.
"The government tried to play down the severity of the economic crisis before the election."
"The White House played down reports of a rift between the two leaders."
— The Guardian, 2018
To present one's own achievements or qualities as less impressive than they are; to be modest.
"She always plays down her success, but she's one of the most talented engineers in the company."
Very common in journalism, politics, and everyday speech. Often implies a deliberate strategy — someone 'plays down' something to manage public perception or avoid alarm. The opposite of 'play up'. Equally common in British and American English, though American English also uses the one-word 'downplay'. Can be used reflexively ('she played down her role').
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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