tones down
- softensReduces intensity or hardness
- mutesSilences or softens
- moderatesReduces intensity or extremity
- dampensLessens intensity or moisture
- subduesOvercomes and controls
tempers · mellows · dials back · eases · lightens · quiets · calms · restrains · dilutes · weakens · blunts · cushions · smooths · gentles · reduces · diminishes · lowers · soothes
intensity modulation
tones downamps up
Increases intensity or energy
ramps up · intensifies · amplifies · cranks up · heightens
prominence/visibility
tones downplays up
Overemphasizes or exaggerates
highlights · accentuates · emphasizes · spotlights · draws attention to
emotional/rhetorical force
tones downinflames
Arouses intense emotion
sensationalizes · dramatizes · stirs up · aggravates · fires up