dumb down

Definition of dumb downnext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of dumb down In other words, rather than admitting more qualified applicants, the administration has chosen to pressure professors to dumb down the material. — Adam B. Summers, Oc Register, 11 June 2026 Those attempts to dumb down devices continue in the streaming age. — Janko Roettgers, The Verge, 28 May 2026 The one remaining source of substantial opposition remains the faculty, who frequently claim that shorter degrees will dumb down expectations for students. — Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 13 Feb. 2026 The apparent solution among the education establishment is not to challenge kids to stretch their minds and hit the books but rather to dumb down the curriculum so everyone passes. — Stephen Moore, Boston Herald, 18 Dec. 2025 For once, the Perrys promised, over many, many drinks, a movie would be made that didn’t dumb down the story on which it was based. — Susan Cheever, Vogue, 29 Sep. 2025 Parents responded that such changes would dumb down San Francisco schools. — Jill Tucker, San Francisco Chronicle, 28 May 2025 The company wanted to ensure that amateurs could safely explore the car’s uncanny capabilities but didn’t want to dumb down the thrills. — IEEE Spectrum, 28 Mar. 2011
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dumb down
Verb
  • Nike is also simplifying retail assortments, investing in premium retail experiences, and strengthening its wholesale partnerships.
    — Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026
  • That could reduce weight and simplify the electronics surrounding the RF chain.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 2 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • For language learners, this raises concerns that a chatbot may provide cultural information that is inaccurate, biased or oversimplified.
    — Antonio Perez-Nunez, The Conversation, 30 Sep. 2026
  • Here, Theron grew particularly impassioned, explaining that people try to oversimplify the situation.
    — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 21 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • These changes aim to streamline how permits and projects move through the department.
    — Jack Flemming, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Permitting legislation, in particular, was viewed as a way to address the cost of living, given its focus on streamlining energy projects.
    — David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 30 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Dumb down.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dumb%20down. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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