underplaying
|un/der/play/ing|
🇺🇸
/ˌʌndərˈpleɪɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/ˌʌndəˈpleɪɪŋ/
(underplay)
subtle performance
Etymology
'underplay' originates from the prefix 'under-' meaning 'below' and the verb 'play,' which means 'to perform or act.'
'underplay' evolved from the Old English 'plegian,' meaning 'to play or perform,' combined with 'under,' indicating a lesser degree.
Initially, it meant 'to perform below one's ability,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to present something in a restrained manner.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to present or perform something in a restrained or subtle manner.
The actor was praised for underplaying his role, allowing the story to shine.
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Verb 2
to make something seem less important or serious than it really is.
She tends to underplay her achievements.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41