This is the 12261st most frequent German word.
verharmlosung
"Verharmlosung" means "trivialization" or "downplaying something's seriousness."
In this sentence, 'verharmlosung' is used as a noun to describe the act of trivializing a serious issue, namely the health risks of smoking.
Die Verharmlosung der Gefahren des Rauchens kann zu ernsthaften Missverständnissen führen.
The trivialization of the dangers of smoking can lead to serious misunderstandings.
Here, 'verharmlosung' refers to the act of making crimes appear less serious than they are, emphasizing the consequences of such an attitude.
Man sollte keine Verharmlosung von Kriminalität zulassen, denn das untergräbt das Vertrauen in die Justiz.
One should not allow the downplaying of crime, as it undermines trust in the judiciary.
In this usage, 'verharmlosung' is used to critique a tendency to dismiss or diminish the perceived severity of environmental problems.