Belittle: meaning, definitions and examples
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belittle
[ bɪˈlɪt(ə)l ]
in communication
To make someone or something seem less impressive or important than they really are.
Synonyms
denigrate, diminish, disparage, undermine
Examples of usage
- He has a tendency to belittle his colleagues in front of others.
- She was belittled by her classmates for her unique style.
- Don't belittle her achievements, she worked really hard for them.
in relationships
To dismiss or ridicule someone in a way that shows a lack of respect or appreciation.
Synonyms
degrade, insult, mock, ridicule
Examples of usage
- Stop belittling me, I deserve to be treated with respect.
- She felt belittled by his constant criticism.
- Belittling your partner's feelings can damage the relationship.
Translations
Translations of the word "belittle" in other languages:
🇵🇹 menosprezar
🇮🇳 छोटा बनाना
🇩🇪 herabsetzen
🇮🇩 mengecilkan
🇺🇦 применшувати
🇵🇱 umniejszać
🇯🇵 軽視する (けいしする)
🇫🇷 rabaisser
🇪🇸 menospreciar
🇹🇷 küçümsemek
🇰🇷 과소평가하다 (kwasopyeonggahada)
🇸🇦 يقلل من شأن
🇨🇿 zlehčovat
🇸🇰 zľahčovať
🇨🇳 贬低 (biǎndī)
🇸🇮 podcenjevati
🇮🇸 lítilækka
🇰🇿 кемсіту
🇬🇪 უმნიშვნელო
🇦🇿 kiçiltmək
🇲🇽 menospreciar
Word origin
The word 'belittle' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the combination of 'be-' as an intensifier and 'little'. It has been used in English to describe the act of making something seem less important or impressive. Over time, 'belittle' has become a common term in communication and relationships, highlighting the negative impact of undermining someone's worth or achievements.
See also: littleneck, littleness.