as in downplays
to reduce in apparent importance
she politely tries to soft-pedal her accomplishments when talking to less fortunate people
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for soft-pedals
Verb
-
The humble Toney downplays that nickname.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
17 Jan. 2026 -
This downplays the robotic look somewhat.—
James Morris,
Forbes.com,
17 Jan. 2026
Verb
-
Direct control minimizes exposure to foreign competitors, alters local politics, and prevents contract revocation.—
Trefis Team,
Forbes.com,
20 Jan. 2026
-
And, since the metals found inside batteries are considered valuable, recycling them minimizes the need to mine for raw materials.—
Katherine Gallagher,
Treehugger,
20 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Leadership that dismisses or undermines inclusion inflicts real harm on students, faculty, and staff.—
Wanda James,
Denver Post,
13 Jan. 2026
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Lanthimos dismisses any anxiety the industry might have about accommodating neurodivergent performers.—
Clayton Davis,
Variety,
12 Jan. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Soft-pedals.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/soft-pedals. Accessed 24 Jan. 2026.
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