Belittling: meaning, definitions and examples
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belittling
[bɪˈlɪt(ə)lɪŋ ]
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.
|
| 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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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 other’s 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 others’ worth.
Translations
Translations of the word "belittling" in other languages:
🇵🇹 menosprezo
🇮🇳 तुच्छ करना
🇩🇪 herabwürdigend
🇮🇩 meremehkan
🇺🇦 применшення
🇵🇱 umniejszanie
🇯🇵 軽視
🇫🇷 dénigrant
🇪🇸 menospreciar
🇹🇷 küçümseyici
🇰🇷 폄하
🇸🇦 انتقاص
🇨🇿 zlehčování
🇸🇰 zľahčovanie
🇨🇳 贬低
🇸🇮 podcenjevanje
🇮🇸 niðurlægjandi
🇰🇿 кемсіту
🇬🇪 დამცირება
🇦🇿 kiçiltmə
🇲🇽 menospreciar