Pejoratively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pejoratively
[pɪˈdʒɔːrəˌtɪvli ]
Definition
negative connotation
Pejoratively refers to the use of a word or phrase in a manner that conveys a negative or derogatory connotation. When something is described pejoratively, it implies a disparaging attitude towards the subject.
Synonyms
belittlingly, deprecatingly, derogatorily, disparagingly.
Examples of usage
- He referred to her pejoratively during the discussion.
- The term was used pejoratively by critics.
- She spoke pejoratively about the proposed plans.
- Many words have been historically used pejoratively.
- Using certain terms pejoratively can offend people.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- Using words pejoratively can change the perception of a subject, influencing people's attitudes and behaviors.
- Language evolves, and terms that were once neutral can become pejorative based on social context and usage over time.
- Pejoratives often reveal underlying biases in language use, reflecting societal attitudes about race, gender, and class.
Psychology
- Pejorative language can affect self-esteem and identity, particularly in marginalized groups.
- Negative labeling can lead to a concept known as the 'stigma spiral,' where individuals internalize negative perceptions.
- It’s been shown that hearing pejorative terms can activate stress responses in listeners, affecting emotional well-being.
Pop Culture
- In film and literature, characters often use pejorative terms to indicate social status or rivalry.
- Online discussions often feature pejorative labels that can escalate conflicts and create 'us versus them' mentalities.
- Famous media analyses, like those of George Orwell, highlight how language can be used pejoratively to manipulate truth.
Sociology
- Pejorative terms can signal power dynamics, where individuals with more power may belittle those with less.
- The use of pejoratives is heavily influenced by cultural norms and can vary significantly across different societies.
- Debates on political correctness often revolve around the challenge of identifying and eliminating pejorative usage in everyday language.
Origin of 'pejoratively'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'pejorare,' meaning 'to make worse.'
- It entered English in the early 19th century, reflecting a growing interest in the nuances of language.
- The suffix '-ively' turns adjectives into adverbs, indicating the manner of action.
The word 'pejoratively' is derived from the adjective 'pejorative', which comes from the Latin word 'pejor', meaning 'worse'. The Latin root 'peior ' suggests a deterioration or a decline in quality, emphasizing a negative assessment. The evolution of the term reflects the notion of disparagement and its application across languages. First appearing in English around the mid-19th century, the word has been commonly used in literary criticism and social commentary to describe terms and phrases that are intended to belittle or insult. As language evolves, the nuances of words like 'pejorative' and its adverbial form 'pejoratively' help in understanding the complex dynamics of communication and the impact that language can have on societal perceptions.