Patronizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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patronizing

[ˈpeɪ.trən.aɪ.zɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

tone of speech

Showing an attitude of superiority; condescending in a way that may seem friendly or helpful, but actually belittles or undermines the other person's capabilities.

Synonyms

condescending, dismissive, superior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
patronizing	When someone speaks or behaves in a way that shows they believe they are more intelligent or better than others, often in a way that is kindly intended but somewhat offensive. She gave him a patronizing smile and said, 'Oh, don't worry, it's too complicated for you to understand '
condescending	Used to describe behavior that treats someone as if they are less important or less intelligent, often unintentionally insulting. His condescending tone made everyone in the meeting feel uncomfortable when he said, 'Clearly, none of you have encountered this kind of complexity before '
superior	Usually describes an attitude of being better or more important than others, can be perceived as prideful or haughty. He spoke with a superior air, constantly reminding everyone of his prestigious university background
dismissive	When someone shows that they do not think something or someone is important or worth considering, often in a blunt or rude manner. Her dismissive attitude was apparent when she said, 'That's not an important issue – let's move on '

Examples of usage

He spoke to her in a patronizing tone, as if she couldn't possibly understand the concept.
Don't be so patronizing, I'm perfectly capable of making my own decisions.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

behavior

Treating someone with an apparent kindness which betrays a feeling of superiority; to speak or behave towards someone as if they are less intelligent or knowledgeable than oneself.

Synonyms

condescend, look down on, talk down to.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
patronizing	When someone speaks or behaves as if they are more intelligent or important than others, often in a kind or supportive manner but still conveying superiority. She gave him a patronizing smile and said, 'Oh, that's nice you're trying to learn a new skill '
condescend	Used when someone acts superior and does something that they consider to be below their dignity. Often implies looking down on others. He would never condescend to attend a community event, thinking it's not worth his time
talk down to	Describes the act of speaking to someone as if they are less intelligent or less capable. It can be particularly offensive in professional or educational settings. He always talks down to his team, making them feel undervalued
look down on	Refers to viewing someone or something as inferior or unworthy. Commonly used in everyday conversations with a negative connotation. She tends to look down on people who haven't attended college

Examples of usage

She felt insulted by his patronizing behavior towards her colleagues.
He constantly patronizes his younger brother, thinking he knows better.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'patronizing'

The word 'patronize' comes from the late 16th century, originally meaning 'to act as a patron towards'. It later evolved to include the sense of 'treat with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority'. The negative connotation of being patronizing emerged in the 19th century as a criticism of those who display condescending behavior towards others.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,739, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21737 disobeyed
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21739 patronizing
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