Putdown Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
putdown
[หpสtdaสn ]
Definitions
negative remark
A putdown is a remark or action that criticizes or belittles someone. Such remarks can be made intentionally or unintentionally and often leave the recipient feeling diminished or insulted. Putdowns can occur in personal relationships, workplaces, and social situations. They may stem from insecurity or a need to assert dominance over others.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His putdown made everyone uncomfortable.
- She couldn't believe the putdown thrown her way.
- He always has a putdown ready for anyone who challenges him.
to belittle
To put down someone means to belittle or criticize them verbally. It can be seen as a way to assert power or superiority over another person. This behavior can negatively affect relationships and create a toxic environment. Often, the intent behind a putdown is to undermine someone's confidence.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He put down his teammates during the game.
- She tends to put down others to feel better about herself.
- It's not right to put down those who are struggling.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Putdowns can lead to decreased self-esteem and can trigger long-term emotional effects, including anxiety or depression.
- In social psychology, they are understood as a form of verbal aggression, often used to assert control in a relationship.
Pop Culture
- In comedy, putdowns are often used as a way to entertain audiences, especially in roast-style humor where friends poke fun at each other.
- Famous individuals in pop culture, like comedians and actors, sometimes use putdowns in their acts to critique societal behaviors.
Literature
- Many novels depict characters who use putdowns as a method of social hierarchy, showcasing the underlying themes of bullying or social power.
- In classic literature, protagonists often face putdowns from antagonists, highlighting their struggles and resilience.
Interpersonal Communication
- Putdowns can damage relationships, as they create feelings of resentment and mistrust between individuals.
- Effective communication strategies encourage constructive feedback instead of damaging remarks, promoting healthier interactions.
Origin of 'putdown'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'putdown' started appearing in the mid-20th century, likely influenced by the rise of informal slang.
- It combines 'put' and 'down', suggesting the act of lowering someoneโs status or spirit.
The term 'putdown' originated in the early 20th century, primarily in American English, as a colloquial expression used to describe a verbal insult or criticism. Its roots can be traced to the earlier English verb 'put down,' which literally means to place something down or to lower it. Over time, this phrase evolved to encapsulate the act of verbally lowering someoneโs status or self-esteem through negative remarks. The concept of 'putting someone down' reflects social dynamics where language can be weaponized to express dominance or superiority over others. As the workplace and social interactions evolved throughout the decades, so too did the use of the term, signifying its relevance in discussions surrounding bullying, self-esteem, and power dynamics in social interactions. The development of the term has paralleled shifts in cultural attitudes toward personal interactions and the impact of language on individual self-worth.