Downplaying the significance of something can be achieved through a variety of synonyms. One might minimize, play down, or diminish the importance of a particular idea, event, or opinion. Other synonyms include understating, belittling, disregarding, and underestimating. Furthermore, one might also use qualifying language, like "somewhat" or "a little," to lessen the impact of a statement. These actions can be used to reduce the perceived importance of a subject, or to suggest that there are other, more important factors at play. Whatever the motive, using synonyms to downplay significance can have a significant effect on how a statement is received.