How to Say "to downplay" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to downplay” is “minimizar” — B1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Tienes que minimizar la ventana para ver el fondo.
You have to minimize the window to see the background.
No debemos minimizar la importancia de este problema.
We should not downplay the importance of this problem.
La empresa busca minimizar los riesgos financieros.
The company seeks to minimize financial risks.
The Z-to-C Spelling Swap
In Spanish, words ending in 'zar' change the 'z' to a 'c' when followed by an 'e'. This happens in the 'yo' form of the past tense (minimicé) and all forms of the 'wishes and commands' mood (subjunctive).
Using 'a' with People
If you are 'downplaying' a person rather than a thing, remember to add the 'personal a'. Example: 'No intentes minimizar a tu hermano' (Don't try to downplay your brother).
Spelling Error in Past Tense
Mistake: “Yo minimizé el problema.”
Correction: Yo minimicé el problema. Remember that 'ze' is very rare in Spanish; it almost always becomes 'ce'.
Related Translations
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