Pejoratively: meaning, definitions and examples

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pejoratively

 

[ pɪˈdʒɔːrəˌtɪvli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

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

Translations of the word "pejoratively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pejorativamente

🇮🇳 निंदा में

🇩🇪 abwertend

🇮🇩 secara merendahkan

🇺🇦 зневажливо

🇵🇱 pejoratywnie

🇯🇵 軽蔑的に

🇫🇷 péjorativement

🇪🇸 de manera peyorativa

🇹🇷 aşağılayıcı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 경멸적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل ازدرائي

🇨🇿 pejorativně

🇸🇰 pejoratívne

🇨🇳 贬义地

🇸🇮 pejorativno

🇮🇸 pejoratíft

🇰🇿 жаман түрде

🇬🇪 დამცირებლად

🇦🇿 pəjorativ şəkildə

🇲🇽 de manera peyorativa

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,788, 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.