Definition
To convey some subject matter in simple terms, avoiding technical or academic language, especially in a way that is considered condescending.
To become simpler in expression or content; to become unacceptably simplistic.
In Context
- "The public won't understand this concept. We need to dumb down our explanation of it."
- "Television has really dumbed down over the past ten years."
- "The dumbing down of America is most evident in the slow decay of substantive content in the enormously influential media, the 30-second sound bites (now down to 10 seconds or less), lowest common denominator programming, credulous presentations on pseudo-science and superstition, but especially a kind of celebration of ignorance."
- "As the reports are written for both the industry and general public, inspectors are required to use accessible language that is free from jargon but without 'dumbing down'."
Also Said As
- oversimplify
- simplify
- put in layman's terms
See Also
- talk down to
- write down
- water down