depreciatingly

depreciatingly

She spoke depreciatingly of his amateur painting.

Definition

Adverb (phó từ): - In a manner that expresses a reduction in value or worth; in a way that shows belittlement, criticism, or low estimation. - Used to describe an action or statement that implies something is less valuable, important, or admirable than it might otherwise be considered.

Usage Examples
  • (She expressed criticism and low regard for his work.)
  • (He showed an attitude that the car had lost its value.)
  • (The review belittled the film’s quality and worth.)
Advanced Usage
  • “to speak depreciatingly”: to express disapproval or low opinion.

    • The manager spoke depreciatingly about the team’s performance, ignoring their hard work. (He criticized the team in a belittling manner.)
  • “to act depreciatingly”: to behave in a way that shows something is undervalued.

    • He treated the antique vase depreciatingly, unaware of its true worth. (He handled it as if it were worthless.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Depreciate (verb): to reduce the value or worth of something; to belittle.

    • The car depreciates quickly after purchase. (It loses value over time.)
  • Depreciation (noun): the decline in value of an asset over time; the act of belittling.

    • Depreciation of the currency affected the economy. (The reduction in currency value.)
  • Depreciatory (adjective): expressing or tending to belittle.

    • His depreciatory remarks hurt her confidence. (His critical, belittling comments.)
Synonyms
  • Belittlingly: in a way that makes someone or something seem less important.
  • Disparagingly: in a manner that shows disrespect or criticism.
  • Scornfully: with contempt or disdain.
  • Derogatorily: in a way that detracts from someone’s status or value.
Antonyms
  • Appreciatively: in a way that shows gratitude or recognition of value.
  • Admiringly: with approval and respect.
Related Idioms
  • “to pour cold water on: to criticize or discourage an idea or plan.

    • He depreciatingly poured cold water on her proposal, calling it impractical. (He expressed strong criticism.)
  • “to take down a peg: to reduce someone’s pride or status.

    • She depreciatingly took him down a peg by pointing out his mistakes. (She belittled his achievements.)