Belittling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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belittling
[bษชหlษชt(ษ)lษชล ]
Definitions
in a conversation
To make someone or something seem less impressive or important than they really are.
Synonyms
depreciate, diminish, disparage.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| belittling |
Use this word when someone is making another person or their achievements seem less important or valuable. It often has a negative connotation, implying disrespect.
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| disparage |
Use this word when someone criticizes someone or something in a way that shows they do not respect or value them. It carries a strong negative connotation.
|
| depreciate |
Use this word primarily in financial or economic contexts, referring to the decrease in value of an asset over time. It can also be used more broadly to indicate a reduction in the perceived value of something, though this usage is less common.
|
| diminish |
Use this word when something reduces in size, importance, or intensity. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts and doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- He belittled her efforts in front of the whole team.
- I don't appreciate you constantly belittling my opinions.
describing behavior
Showing a lack of respect for someone or something, often by making them feel unimportant.
Synonyms
condescending, derogatory, disrespectful.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| belittling |
Use 'belittling' when someone is trying to make someone else seem less important or less valuable. This often involves downplaying achievements or worth.
|
| disrespectful |
Use 'disrespectful' to describe actions or words that show a lack of respect or courtesy towards someone or something.
|
| derogatory |
Use 'derogatory' for remarks or terms that are disrespectful and intended to demean or insult someone.
|
| condescending |
Use 'condescending' when someone is talking down to others, acting as if they are superior or more knowledgeable. It's an attitude of patronizing superiority.
|
Examples of usage
- His belittling comments towards his colleagues created a toxic work environment.
- She grew tired of his belittling attitude towards her achievements.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Belittling can lead to negative emotional responses in the person targeted, such as decreased self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness.
- Often linked to bullying behaviors, belittling can create a toxic environment in schools and workplaces, negatively impacting group dynamics.
Literature
- Belittling characters often appear in literature to showcase power dynamics, where one character uses mockery to assert dominance over another.
- Classic works like 'Pride and Prejudice' feature characters that belittle others to elevate their own social standing.
Pop Culture
- Many films and TV shows depict belittling as a common trope, particularly in relationships where one partner undermines the otherโs confidence.
- Reality shows often highlight belittling behaviors, showcasing the impact of social status and group approval on personal interactions.
Communication
- Belittling is often conveyed through tone, body language, or sarcastic remarks, making the intention sometimes subtle yet harmful.
- Effective communication strategies encourage the opposite of belittling by fostering encouragement and recognition of othersโ worth.
Origin of 'belittling'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'belittle' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'be-' with 'little', which literally means to make little.
- The prefix 'be-' often implies a change or cause in the English language, highlighting how the act transforms perception.
The word 'belittling' originated from the combination of 'be-' (intensive prefix) and 'little'. It first appeared in the early 19th century, with the meaning of making something seem less impressive or important. Over time, it has become commonly used in conversations and written language to describe behaviors or comments that diminish the worth or significance of someone or something.