Disparage: meaning, definitions and examples

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disparage

[dɪˈsparɪdʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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. Refer to the first entry for 'disparage'.
belittle	Often used when someone is making others feel small or insignificant by undervaluing their efforts or abilities; commonly used in interpersonal relationships. He tends to belittle his colleagues' ideas in front of the boss. Parents should avoid belittling their children's accomplishments.
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. The car began to depreciate as soon as it was driven off the lot. She tends to depreciate her own achievements, even though they're quite impressive.
denigrate	Used in contexts where someone is unfairly criticizing or attacking the reputation or character of another person or thing, often with malice. Political candidates often denigrate their opponents during campaigns. The article unfairly denigrated the author's work without any solid basis.
diminish	Used when something is made to seem less important, significant, or valuable; can refer to both tangible and intangible things. Her constant criticisms could not diminish his enthusiasm for the project. Over time, the glory of the landmark has begun to diminish.
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. The company had to devalue its assets due to the economic downturn. Don't devalue her opinions just because you don't agree with them.

Examples of usage

He never missed an opportunity to disparage his competitors.
She felt that she had been disparaged in the press.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

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. She disparaged his accomplishments, saying they were not worth mentioning
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. The teacher criticized the student's essay for its lack of clarity
condemn	This word fits contexts where you express strong disapproval, often for moral reasons. It can also be used in legal settings. The community condemned the vandalism of the historic monument
censure	Appropriate when an official or formal disapproval is expressed, especially by an authoritative body or organization. The politician was censured by the ethics committee for his actions
slur	Used when you want to insult someone or damage their reputation subtly or indirectly. It also has a negative connotation. He made a racial slur, which led to widespread outrage
malign	Suitable when you're accusing someone of evil intentions or actions, often unfairly. It has a strong negative connotation. They maligned her character, spreading false rumors about her

Examples of usage

She disparaged her colleague's work in front of the whole team.
The article disparaged the efforts of the volunteers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "disparage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 menosprezar

🇮🇳 निंदा करना

🇩🇪 herabsetzen

🇮🇩 merendahkan

🇺🇦 зневажати

🇵🇱 umniejszać

🇯🇵 軽蔑する (けいべつする)

🇫🇷 dénigrer

🇪🇸 menospreciar

🇹🇷 küçümsemek

🇰🇷 폄하하다

🇸🇦 استخف

🇨🇿 znevažovat

🇸🇰 znevážiť

🇨🇳 贬低 (biǎndī)

🇸🇮 omalovaževati

🇮🇸 lítilsvirða

🇰🇿 кемсіту

🇬🇪 დამდაბლება

🇦🇿 aşağılamak

🇲🇽 menospreciar

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,667, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
23664 flagella
23665 hyperthermia
23666 argent
23667 disparage
23668 sophistry
23669 oratorio
23670 grudging
...