verb to make something seem less important or serious than it really is
In politics, 'play down' can refer to downplaying the importance or seriousness of a controversial issue or event in order to avoid negative consequences.
In psychology, 'play down' can refer to minimizing the significance or impact of a situation or emotion in order to cope with it.
In education, 'play down' can refer to minimizing the significance of academic achievements or abilities in order to avoid pressure or expectations.
In sports, 'play down' can refer to deliberately underestimating the abilities or strengths of an opponent in order to gain a tactical advantage.
In media, 'play down' can refer to reducing the emphasis or attention given to a particular story or event in order to control the narrative.
In a professional context, 'play down' may be used by a writer when they want to minimize the importance or significance of something in their writing.
Psychologists may use 'play down' when discussing a patient's concerns or anxieties in order to reduce their impact or severity.
A marketing specialist may use 'play down' when downplaying the features of a product in order to manage customer expectations.
Politicians may use 'play down' when trying to reduce the negative impact of a controversial issue or scandal.
A public relations specialist may use 'play down' when trying to minimize the negative publicity surrounding a company or individual.