dumb down

Definition of dumb downnext

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of dumb down In other words, rather than admitting more qualified applicants, the administration has chosen to pressure professors to dumb down the material. Adam B. Summers, Oc Register, 11 June 2026 Those attempts to dumb down devices continue in the streaming age. Janko Roettgers, The Verge, 28 May 2026 The one remaining source of substantial opposition remains the faculty, who frequently claim that shorter degrees will dumb down expectations for students. Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 13 Feb. 2026 The apparent solution among the education establishment is not to challenge kids to stretch their minds and hit the books but rather to dumb down the curriculum so everyone passes. Stephen Moore, Boston Herald, 18 Dec. 2025 For once, the Perrys promised, over many, many drinks, a movie would be made that didn’t dumb down the story on which it was based. Susan Cheever, Vogue, 29 Sep. 2025 Parents responded that such changes would dumb down San Francisco schools. Jill Tucker, San Francisco Chronicle, 28 May 2025 The company wanted to ensure that amateurs could safely explore the car’s uncanny capabilities but didn’t want to dumb down the thrills. IEEE Spectrum, 28 Mar. 2011
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dumb down
Verb
  • Decluttering should precede organizing; the Core 4 Method (clear out, categorize, cut out, contain) simplifies the process.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Larger-capacity cells can potentially reduce the number of individual cells and connections needed in a large storage installation, simplifying parts of system construction.
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 9 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Fantasy trade discussions can oversimplify what’s actually a more complicated process for those making the decisions.
    Shakeia Taylor, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Critics argue the rules oversimplify a more complex issue and could limit valuable educational tools.
    James Ward, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The other problem with Shaw’s solution is his call for a streamlining commission.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Companies can streamline their strategies and operations by treating compliance as engineering instead of real estate.
    Volodymyr Lebediev, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Dumb down.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dumb%20down. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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