Disparage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
disparage
[dษชหsparษชdส ]
Definitions
in conversation
Regard or represent as being of little worth. Belittle.
Synonyms
belittle, denigrate, depreciate, devalue, diminish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
disparage |
Note: This word is listed twice in the provided input. Refer to the first entry.
|
belittle |
Often used when someone is making others feel small or insignificant by undervaluing their efforts or abilities; commonly used in interpersonal relationships.
|
depreciate |
Commonly used in financial contexts to describe a decrease in value over time; can also be used to downplay someone's worth, often inaccurately.
|
denigrate |
Used in contexts where someone is unfairly criticizing or attacking the reputation or character of another person or thing, often with malice.
|
diminish |
Used when something is made to seem less important, significant, or valuable; can refer to both tangible and intangible things.
|
devalue |
Often used in economic contexts to describe a reduction in the value of currency; can also be used to talk about reducing the perceived worth of someone or something.
|
Examples of usage
- He never missed an opportunity to disparage his competitors.
- She felt that she had been disparaged in the press.
formal writing
Speak of (someone or something) in a way that shows lack of respect. Criticize.
Synonyms
censure, condemn, criticize, malign, slur.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
disparage |
Use when you want to belittle or speak slightingly of someone or something, often unfairly. This word has a negative connotation.
|
criticize |
Use in situations where you point out faults or mistakes in a more generalized sense. It can be used constructively or destructively, depending on the tone.
|
condemn |
This word fits contexts where you express strong disapproval, often for moral reasons. It can also be used in legal settings.
|
censure |
Appropriate when an official or formal disapproval is expressed, especially by an authoritative body or organization.
|
slur |
Used when you want to insult someone or damage their reputation subtly or indirectly. It also has a negative connotation.
|
malign |
Suitable when you're accusing someone of evil intentions or actions, often unfairly. It has a strong negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She disparaged her colleague's work in front of the whole team.
- The article disparaged the efforts of the volunteers.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Impact
- Disparagement is often used in media and politics to undermine opponents, shaping public perceptions.
- In the realm of art, disparaging criticism can sometimes lead to a broader discussion about societal values and expectations.
- Literary works often highlight themes of disparagement, illustrating the social dynamics of status and reputation.
Psychology
- Studying disparagement can shed light on issues like bullying, reflecting how negative comments impact self-esteem.
- People often disparage others to elevate their own social status, revealing insecurities and societal pressures.
- Psychological research indicates that frequent disparagement is linked to unhealthy communication patterns in relationships.
Literature
- Many classic novels explore characters who disparage others, often as a means to highlight their own flaws or weaknesses.
- Authors use disparagement as a tool to critique societal norms, encouraging readers to reflect on their values.
- Famous literary figures often faced disparagement, which sometimes spurred their greatest works, revealing the intersection of criticism and creativity.
Origin of 'disparage'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'disparagen', which means to lower in rank or esteem.
- It traces further back to the Old French 'desparager', meaning to bring shame or dishonor.
- Root components include 'dis-' (to do the opposite) and 'par' (equal), indicating an action that reduces equality.
The word 'disparage' originated from the Middle English word 'disparagen', which came from the Old French word 'desparagier', meaning 'marry unequally'. Over time, the meaning evolved to its current usage of belittling or showing lack of respect for someone or something.