deprecatory
/'deprikətəri/
Học thuậtThân thiện
He made a deprecatory gesture with his hand after his colleague praised his work.
Definition
- Adjective:
- Expressing disapproval or criticism; belittling: Describes words, remarks, or attitudes that show you think something or someone is of little value or importance.
- Apologetic or regretful: Expressing a wish that something would not happen or be the case, often used to make a polite apology or to show modesty.
Usage
- The primary use of deprecatory is to describe language or behavior that disparages or criticizes something, often by making it seem less important.
- It can also describe a tone or remark that is meant to be modest or self-effacing, often to politely deflect praise or attention.
Examples
- As disparaging/critical:
- He made a deprecatory comment about his colleague's work ethic.
- The review was filled with deprecatory remarks about the film's plot.
- As apologetic/modest:
- She gave a deprecatory shrug when complimented on her success.
- "It was nothing, really," he said with a deprecatory wave of his hand.
Advanced Usage
- "in a deprecatory manner/tone": Acting or speaking in a way that shows disapproval or modest dismissal.
- She mentioned her award in a deprecatory manner, as if it were unimportant.
- Self-deprecatory humor: A specific type of humor where a person makes fun of themselves.
- His speech was full of self-deprecatory jokes that made the audience warm to him.
Variants and Related Words
- Deprecate (verb): To express disapproval of; to belittle or argue against.
- The committee voted to deprecate the use of the outdated software.
- Deprecating (adjective): Serving to depreciate or belittle; often used similarly to "deprecatory."
- He shot her a deprecating look.
- Self-deprecation (noun): The act of belittling or undervaluing oneself; modesty about one's own abilities.
- Her self-deprecation sometimes makes it hard for others to recognize her talents.
Synonyms
- Disparaging: Expressing the opinion that something is of little worth.
- Belittling: Dismissing someone or something as unimportant.
- Derogatory: Showing a critical or disrespectful attitude.
- Apologetic: Expressing regret or asking for pardon (for the modest/polite sense).
Antonyms
- Complimentary: Expressing praise or admiration.
- Appreciative: Showing gratitude or pleasure.
- Flattering: Full of praise and compliments.
He made a deprecatory gesture with his hand after his colleague praised his work.
Adjective
- tending to diminish or disparage
- belittling comments
- managed a deprecating smile at the compliment
- deprecatory remarks about the book
- a slighting remark