American officials sought to play down the importance of the meeting.

Thomas sought to play down their association, saying, "My relationship with all the players is pretty strong."

British officials sought to play down the significance of yesterday's move.

School officials did not seek to play down the cuts.

Both he and his wife sought to play down the incident.

He sought to play down race as an issue, but had little success.

And today she sought to play down the issue of gender in her new role.

Leaders from both countries publicly sought to play down the divisions.

Yet at the same time he sought to play down the deal's place in his legacy.

City officials sought to play down the significance of the decision, saying they would appeal.