quitar hierro

1.
SpainLatin Americaneutral
- To remove iron from something; a literal, physical action.
2.
SpainLatin Americacolloquialinformal
- To downplay or minimize the seriousness, importance, or emotional impact of an event or statement; to play something down.

Examples:

ES: No quiero quitar hierro a su maldad, pero como consejero sentimental es un fuera de serie.
EN: You know, not to take away from his evilness or anything, but he is also unbelievable with dating problems.
ES: Estaba intentando quitar hierro al asunto.
EN: I was trying to keep the vibe light.
ES: Intento quitar hierro al asunto.
EN: I'm trying to lighten the mood.
ES: Algo que puede ayudar a quitar hierro a la situación.
EN: Something that may help defuse the situation.