Function: verb
to reduce the emphasis, importance, or effect of something (as an issue) FF1C; tried to soft-pedal military spending FF1E;
Synonyms: de-emphasize, play (down)
Related Words: tone (down), tune (down); cushion, dampen, muffle, subdue; hush (up), silence, suppress; conceal, disguise
Contrasted Words: emphasize, play (up); focus (on), spotlight