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
  • Keep the meaning intact, simplify the wording, and let clarity carry your idea forward.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 16 Aug. 2026
  • The company is simplifying its joint-venture portfolio and shedding underperforming properties.
    Brett Owens, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • For companies operating in specialized B2B and B2G environments, there is an opportunity to borrow some of the best principles of consumer marketing, without oversimplifying the complexity of the buying process.
    Taylor Cheek-Mundy, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
  • 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
Verb
  • Both scandals spurred reforms by state lawmakers that nevertheless failed to streamline a complex disciplinary process and left gaps for troubled businesses to continue operating.
    Gregory Royal Pratt, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Instead of preparing separate master plans for each site, a process that has delayed projects for years, the city would streamline planning standards across commercial areas.
    Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 15 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dumb down.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dumb%20down. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster