Dispraise: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the prefix 'dis-', meaning 'opposite of', and 'praise', which means 'to express approval or admiration'.
• 'Dispraise' has been used in the English language since the 14th century, showing that people have always criticized too.
• Related words like 'criticism' or 'censure' also convey negative feedback, demonstrating the richness of English vocabulary around judgment.

Psychology

• Criticism can affect self-esteem and motivation, especially in children, making it essential to balance feedback.
• The 'sandwich technique' (praising before and after criticism) is often recommended to soften the impact of dispraise.
• Studies show that excessive dispraise can lead to defensiveness and aggression in individuals, highlighting its powerful emotional effect.

Literature

• Dispraise is often used in literature to develop a character's arc or highlight moral failures.
• Authors may employ dispraise to create dramatic tension, using characters' critiques to reveal deeper truths or conflicts.
• Famous works, such as Shakespeare's plays, often feature characters who voice dispraise to represent societal norms or personal grievances.

Cultural Context

• In some cultures, direct criticism is considered rude, while in others, it is seen as a valuable tool for improvement.
• The rise of social media has changed how dispraise is shared, with public critiques gaining more visibility and impact.
• In many cultures, constructive criticism is valued, focusing on growth and improvement rather than simply dispraising.

Communication

• Effective communication often requires balancing praise and dispraise to foster healthy relationships.
• Non-verbal cues, like tone and body language, can amplify the effects of dispraise, making it more hurtful.
• Learning to give dispraise thoughtfully can improve understanding and promote better outcomes in discussions.

Ranking #36,245, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

• ...
• 36242 tyrannized
• 36243 prefiguring
• 36244 coddle
• 36245 dispraise
• 36246 demographer
• 36247 memorise
• 36248 laved
• ...