Word or phrase for describing something negatively but only lightly to detract from how bad it really is

Question

i.e. an old rusted car that barely starts
and the used car salesman says:
She's a little worse for wear, but [insert pitch]
acknowledging the car has negative qualities or traits, but minimizing the reality of how bad it really is.
Or a hair dresser slips leaving a bald spot shaved into your scalp
and the hairdresser says:
Have a rough spot there, but [insert platitude]
What are the salesman and hairdresser doing? Minimizing negative attention by acknowledging it mildly then moving on
Looking for a single word or phrase. If single word, it could be used as:
"Have to be careful with that Jimmy, he's always [word]."
I've considered downplay, minimize, etc. And while it's close, I'm looking specifically for the acknowledgement of the negative attribute "in passing" as a way to downplay, or minimize.

Ravi Shankar · Answer

Present in a positive light

is a good descriptor which does not  directly imply anything is wrong with the situation, but does tacitly state that there is something which needs to be ameliorated.
One could also "present something in a positive light" which is not bad at all. Like if I wanted to set my friend up with my sister I could "present her in a positive light" even though there is nothing wrong with her, but I just play up her positive attributes.

fev · Answer

gloss over

to avoid considering something, such as an embarrassing mistake, to make it seem not important, and to quickly continue talking about something else:

She glossed over the company's declining profits.

(Cambridge)
M-W defines it as meaning

to treat or describe (something, such as a serious problem or error) as if it were not important

David Bartley · Answer

The substitute word or phrase is a euphemism. Using one is, adding to the suggestions already offered, downplaying the problem when there is an attempt to partially conceal or redefine the effect of a negative fact, or softening when wanting to convey the truth without being harsh or crude.

Word or phrase for describing something negatively but only lightly to detract from how bad it really is

3 Answers

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question