French Conversation · Level 85
60 words
French word
minimiser
Pronunciation
IPA/minimize/
Meaning
- verbdownplay
Example
Il ne faut pas minimiser ce problème.
This problem must not be downplayed.
More examples
Ils ont minimisé les conséquences de l'accident.
They minimized the consequences of the accident.
Core concept
A serious matter made to look smaller and less weighty than it really is.
Common phrases
minimiser l'importance de
minimize the importance of ___
minimiser un problème
minimize a problem
minimiser les conséquences
minimize the consequences
Similar words
sous-estimer: Underestimate someone's ability or the effect of something.
minorer: Intentionally state a quantity or assessment below its true level.
atténuer: Reduce the apparent force or impact of something.
Definition in French
Présenter une situation, un fait ou une émotion comme moins important, grave ou sérieux qu'il ne l'est réellement.
Word origin
French minimiser derives from Latin minimus, 'smallest', with the suffix -iser forming a verb meaning to make something seem smaller or less important.
Usage tips
- Minimiser takes a direct object, as in minimiser un problème or minimiser un risque.