water down

Definitions

To dilute a liquid, especially a drink, by adding water.

To make a statement, policy, or idea less forceful, controversial, or extreme.

Examples

The company decided to water down the original proposal to make it more acceptable to the board.

If you water down the paint too much, it will lose its vibrant color and coverage.

Critics argued that the new legislation was a watered-down version of the initial environmental protection bill.

Synonyms

dilute weaken thin adulterate attenuate debase moderate

Antonyms

strengthen concentrate intensify fortify reinforce condense exaggerate