Definition

1. 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  • The committee voted to deprecate the use of the outdated software.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.

Adjective

1. tending to diminish or disparage
   • belittling comments
   • managed a deprecating smile at the compliment
   • deprecatory remarks about the book
   • a slighting remark