overshadow
verb C2
Plain meaning
to make something seem less important or impressive by comparison
Exam-register meaning
In formal or high-level texts, it is used to describe to make something seem less important or impressive by comparison, often with a precise or specialised tone.
In context
naturalThe team tried to overshadow the problem before it became serious.
examThe report argues that institutions should overshadow ineffective practices through evidence-based reform.
Common collocations
overshadow a proposalovershadow the issueovershadow in practice
Watch out
Do not use “overshadow” with every object. Check the object that follows it and avoid using it when a simpler verb is more natural.
Word family
overshadowing (verb form)overshadowed (past/participle, where regular)