Subdued time, before day in 1D (5,4)

I believe the answer is:

toned down

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But I can't explain it at all! Could you help me understand?

(Other definitions for toned down that I've seen before include "Moderated; softened" , "Modest" , "Less 27a [EXTREME]" , "Less harsh" .)

I've seen this clue in the Independent.

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