play down
To make or attempt to make something seem less important, likely, or obvious.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The company tried to play down the recent technical problems.”
“The manager attempted to play down the severity of the budget cuts during the staff meeting.”
“Despite the mounting evidence of a systemic failure, the spokesperson continued to play down the risks to the public.”
- 01
child's play
Something particularly easy or simple.
- 02
go play in the traffic
To go elsewhere and feel free to engage in risky behavior; to get lost.
- 03
grandstand play
A successful play or other manoeuvre during a sporting competition in which one or more players shows off unnecessarily in order to entertain or impress the spectators.
- 04
hold-up play
A play where an attacker retains possession of the ball, while the teammates can move up the field.
- 05
play a part
To be involved in such a way to affect the outcome, to be a contributing factor.
- 06
play a role
To have an effect or influence on a situation or outcome; to contribute to something.
- 07
play all one's cards
To use all one's resources.
- 08
play along
To take part in a charade, deception, or practical joke.
Last updated August 10, 2026