bɨˈlɪt.əl ˈdɛn.ɪ.ɡɹeɪt ˈdɛɹəɡeɪt ˈmɪn.ɪ.maɪz ˈmɪn.ɨ.maɪz make small or insignificant Let's minimize the risk represent as less significant or important cause to seem less serious; play down Don't belittle his influence