underemphasize
Give insufficient weight
To underemphasize something is to give it less weight or attention than it deserves: The report underemphasizes the environmental risks.
The word implies inadequate stress on something important, suggesting the speaker knows better: Critics say the curriculum underemphasizes critical thinking.
The opposite of overemphasize.
Express with restraint
- underplayMinimize emphasis or expression
- play downDiminish perceived significance
- soft-pedalDiminish stated significance
- gloss overMinimize or conceal flaws
minimize · diminish · tone down · mute · undervalue · underrate · underestimate · depreciate
understate
Express with restraint
- underplayMinimize emphasis or expression
- play downDiminish perceived significance
- soft-pedalDiminish stated significance
gloss over · minimize · diminish · tone down · mute · undervalue · underrate · underestimate · depreciate · devalue
overlook
Miss or commanding view
omit · skip · bypass · miss · slight · pass over · leave out · skim over · brush off · underprioritize
understate
Express with restraint
allude · insinuate · nuance · muted · restrained · subdued · low-key · soft · gentle · toned-down
underemphasizeoveremphasize
Stress something too much
emphasize · highlight · stress · accentuate · underscore